Lionel Messi produced another memorable FIFA World Cup performance as Argentina opened their 2026 campaign with a convincing victory over Algeria, but the result was overshadowed by debate surrounding an incident involving the Argentine captain.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner inspired Argentina to a 3-0 success at Kansas City Stadium in Missouri on Wednesday, scoring all three goals to register a remarkable hat-trick in what could be the final World Cup appearance of his illustrious career.
Messi’s treble not only helped Argentina begin their title defence in impressive fashion but also saw him enter the record books as the oldest player ever to score a World Cup hat-trick.
At 38 years and 357 days, the veteran forward surpassed previous milestones and once again demonstrated why he remains one of football’s most influential figures.
However, despite the celebrations surrounding his goalscoring exploits, discussion after the match quickly turned to a challenge involving Algeria defender Aissa Mandi.
Midway through the contest, Messi appeared to catch Mandi high on the calf from behind during an attempt to win possession.
Match officials allowed play to continue, and neither the referee nor the Video Assistant Referee deemed the challenge worthy of disciplinary action.
The decision has since divided opinion among football observers, with former Manchester City defender Nedum Onouha becoming one of the most prominent voices questioning the officials’ judgement.
Speaking on ESPN FC after the match, the former Premier League player argued that Messi was fortunate to avoid a dismissal.
“I think, yeah, it probably should have been a red card in my opinion. I think it feels like the moment was missed, because, obviously, the stills are making it look quite bad.
“But when the player was on the floor, you could see Messi had a level of concern towards him, ’cause he knew that he potentially has just done something here, which could get him in trouble.”
Onouha suggested that while the on-field referee may not have had the clearest view of the incident, the responsibility should then have fallen on VAR officials to intervene.
The former defender acknowledged that referees can occasionally miss incidents during the speed of play but insisted that video review systems are designed precisely to identify such moments.
Continuing his assessment of the challenge, Onouha added:
“And I think the referee’s probably missed and I understand if he’s missed it, but for the video system referee to look at that and say, ‘No, that’s all fine. There’s nothing more to it.’ I personally think that is worthy a red.”
Football’s governing authorities introduced video technology to reduce clear and obvious errors, yet contentious incidents continue to generate discussion among players, coaches, pundits and supporters.
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In this case, opinions have remained split. Some observers believe Messi’s challenge carried enough force and danger to warrant a dismissal, while others argue that the contact was accidental and insufficient for a red card.
Historic hat-trick overshadowed by controversy
For much of the evening, Messi’s performance appeared destined to dominate the headlines.
The Argentina captain showcased the composure, vision and finishing ability that have defined his career, repeatedly troubling Algeria’s defence and delivering the clinical edge required at the highest level of international football.
Each goal highlighted a different aspect of his game, reinforcing the enduring quality that has allowed him to remain among football’s elite despite approaching his 39th birthday.
His achievement was particularly significant given the context of the tournament.
Many supporters and analysts have suggested that the 2026 World Cup could represent Messi’s final appearance on football’s biggest stage.
As a result, every performance is likely to attract heightened attention, with fans eager to witness the closing chapter of one of the sport’s greatest careers.
