Controversial Call: Why Messi Escaped a Red Card Against Algeria

Former analyst Alejandro Moreno has criticised the officiating in Argentina’s World Cup match against Algeria. He insists Lionel Messi’s studs caught defender Aissa Mandi’s calf in a dangerous challenge around the 30th minute. Replays showed Mandi on the ground in pain, but referee Szymon Marciniak allowed play to continue. Moreno argued the tackle met the criteria for a straight red card and questioned why VAR did not review the incident. He suggested top stars sometimes receive favourable treatment and said the missed call fuels claims of inconsistency at major tournaments. Despite the controversy, Messi completed a hat-trick with two second-half goals as Argentina won 3-0. Fans and pundits remain split over the referee’s decision and VAR’s inaction.

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