The Algerian Football Federation has submitted an official complaint to FIFA over refereeing decisions during Algeria’s 3-0 defeat to Argentina in their 2026 World Cup opening match.
Algeria claims that Argentina captain Lionel Messi and midfielder Alexis Mac Allister were lucky to avoid red cards during the Group J match, raising concerns about the decisions made by Polish referee Szymon Marciniak.
The complaint reportedly highlights a 30th-minute challenge by Messi, where Algeria believes the forward’s studs-up tackle on Aissa Mandi deserved a red card. The federation also pointed to an alleged elbow incident involving Mac Allister and Ibrahim Maza, which went unpunished.
Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic expressed frustration over the incidents, saying: “It’s pointless commenting on hypothetical situations, but everyone saw it.”
The controversy came on the same night Messi made history by scoring a hat-trick in his 200th appearance for Argentina, helping the defending champions secure a 3-0 victory and equal Miroslav Klose’s World Cup record of 16 goals.
Argentina will now focus on their next Group J matches against Austria and Jordan as they look to secure qualification for the knockout stages.
.jpeg)
0 $type={blogger}:
Post a Comment