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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 avoids booking after controversial tackle in Algeria match

Summary

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.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•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.

Latest Updates

3:43 AMYahoo Sports — Soccer fans slam VAR blunder after Lionel Messi avoids booking for horrendous tackle vs Algeria

What they're saying

"
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.
— Yahoo Sports

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