Lionel Messi, the 38-year-old soccer legend, scored all three of Argentina’s goals in a 3-0 win over Algeria in the World Cup. However, his actions on the field have sparked controversy after he appeared to step on an Algerian defender’s calf, causing him to collapse to the ground.

Questionable Challenge

Messi’s challenge on Aissa Mandi has been widely criticized, with many analysts and former referees saying that it warrants a red card. The incident occurred in the first half of the game, and Messi was only given a warning by the referee.

Former Bundesliga referee Patrick Ittrich said that he would have carded Messi for the challenge, stating that it fits the rubric for a red card. The lack of a red card has raised questions about the consistency of refereeing in the World Cup.

Original reporting: All Sports Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.