Algerian Media Spark Outrage With Anti-Semitic Messi Conspiracy Claim

Algerian media drew backlash after Argentina opened its 2026 World Cup title defense with a 3-0 win over Algeria, led by a Lionel Messi hat trick. During the match, Messi appeared to commit a foul that many thought should have been punished with a red card, but the referee did not send him off, setting off debate worldwide.

In an Algerian television program, commentator Mostafa Mazouzi offered a conspiracy theory to explain the decision. He claimed Messi is “part of the Jewish lobby” that controls the world and said that influence helped him win the World Cup and Argentina’s opening game in this tournament.

Mazouzi also said that same lobby does not want Algeria to advance because the country supports Palestinians. In his live remarks, he said Messi is protected, that “they control the world and do whatever they want,” and called it “a mafia.” He added that FIFA president Gianni Infantino does not want Algeria to succeed because it is a proud country and supports the Palestinian issue and Western Sahara.

The comments quickly triggered criticism online, where many rejected the claims and pointed to the long history of anti-Semitic conspiracy theories. The article does not say whether Mazouzi or the broadcaster faced any formal consequences.