Algeria Protests to FIFA: Messi Should Have Received a Red Card

The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has lodged a formal protest with FIFA, contesting the referee's decisions during their 0-3 loss to Argentina in a 2026 World Cup qualifying match. The federation's complaint focuses on key incidents involving Argentinian stars Lionel Messi and Alexis Mac Allister.

According to reports, the primary grievance concerns a 30th-minute tackle by Messi on Algerian captain Aissa Mandi. Messi's studs-up challenge to Mandi's calf and Achilles tendon was deemed by many observers to warrant a red card. However, the referee, Szymon Marciniak, only awarded a free kick and did not consult VAR for a review.

Algeria's protest also highlights a second incident in the 74th minute, where Alexis Mac Allister elbowed Ibrahim Maza in the face, causing him to fall. The FAF argues this action should have resulted in a penalty for Algeria, but the referee made no call.

Algerian coach Vladimir Petkovic voiced his disappointment after the match, stating, "There is no point in commenting on hypothetical situations, but everyone saw it, including me." The FAF's official statement confirmed the protest, citing the referee's decisions during the match where Algeria lost to Argentina.