India, June 18 -- Lionel Messi, despite scoring a memorable hat-trick in Argentina's FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Algeria, has been at the centre of a debate over a challenge that appeared worthy of a red card to many fans. In a tussle with Aissa Mandi, the Argentine captain stepped on the defender's calf in a tackle from behind, which usually leads to a red card. Mandi collapsed on the ground, but Messi escaped unpunished. It was not even adjudged a foul, as the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner also protested. Now, many feel it was an obvious red-card offence, which was allegedly overlooked by the referee.

Did Lionel Messi deserve a red card for his foul vs Algeria?

Mandi was visibly in pain after the brutal blow to his calf. The re...