Backlash Over Missed Red Card for Messi in World Cup Debut

Lionel Messi’s World Cup debut against Algeria sparked heavy criticism after a first-half foul that many viewers said should have earned him a red card. The incident came in the 31st minute, only minutes after what was described as his “glorious” moment, when Messi challenged defender Aissa Mandi and lifted a high leg into the center back’s ankle area.

The Polish referee whistled for a foul but did not show Messi a card. Algeria’s players asked for a VAR review, and referee Szymon Marciniak reportedly checked the play and decided to let the match continue. Social media quickly filled with claims that Messi should have been sent off.

On the refereeing account Archivo VAR, which tracks officiating issues around the world, the incident was called a “serious mistake” by VAR. The account said Messi went into Mandi from behind and struck him, adding that it was a “clear red card” and that VAR had “fearfully” ignored the challenge.

Journalist Fernando Esquivel also argued that any other player would have at least been reviewed for a possible red card. He said Messi’s status changes how officials judge such incidents, calling it not a complaint but “the reality.” The article is tied to the 2026 World Cup coverage and was published on June 17, 2026, at 04:57.