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FIFA Backs Referee's Decision Not to Send Off Messi

How 2 Israeli newsrooms covered this story — translated into English and compared side by side.

100% centerFirst reported by Mako · Jun 18, 2026
Center 2

What happened

FIFA has endorsed Szymon Marciniak’s refusal to send off Lionel Messi during Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria. Former referee Rafał Rostkowski said the tackle was not serious enough for VAR intervention or a red card.

  • 01FIFA backed Szymon Marciniak after Messi was not sent off against Algeria.
  • 02Rafał Rostkowski said the referee made the correct call.
  • 03The incident happened in the 31st minute, and Messi later scored a hat trick.
  • 04Pierluigi Collina said FIFA did not view the tackle as violent conduct.
  • 05Rostkowski said VAR had no basis to recommend a review.

Summary translated & synthesized from the sources below by baba. Read each original for the full report.

Full coverage · 2 outlets

The same event, reported separately by each newsroom. Open a few to compare what each emphasizes — and what they leave out.

MakoCenter · HebrewJun 18, 2026
FIFA Backs Referee's Decision Not to Send Off Messi
N12Center · HebrewJun 18, 2026
FIFA backs referee’s no-red-card call on Messi against Algeria

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