Lionel Messi avoids booking after controversial tackle in Algeria match
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 3:43 AM
Last updated Jun 17, 2026
Lionel Messi's performance in Argentina's World Cup opener against Algeria, held on June 17, 2026, draws attention not only for his hat trick but also a contentious tackle on Aissa Mandi. Fans debate whether Messi should have received a red card or at least a yellow for the challenge, which went unpunished by officials. The incident has generated significant discussion online, with criticisms of VAR usage and the standards applied to high-profile players like Messi. As the match continues, the focus remains on both Messi’s scoring and the officiating.
- •Messi scores a hat trick in the World Cup opener against Algeria.
- •A controversial tackle on Aissa Mandi raises VAR concerns.
- •Fans express mixed opinions on the tackle's severity and punishment.
- •The match is ongoing, with discussions centered on officiating.
- •Debate reignites frustrations from Argentina's previous World Cup run.
- 3:43 AMYahoo Sports — Soccer fans slam VAR blunder after Lionel Messi avoids booking for horrendous tackle vs Algeria
"Lionel Messi’s World Cup opener against Algeria is becoming a showcase of his brilliance, but one controversial challenge has put the spotlight on the officials too. The Argentina captain is delivering the kind of performance that quickly takes over a tournament, yet a tackle on Aissa Mandi is now sitting beside his goals as a major talking point.
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