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2026 World Cup: Moreno Slams Referee for Not Giving Messi Red Card Against Algeria

Messi scored three goals and matched Miroslav Klose’s World Cup record of 16, while a studs-up challenge drew red-card criticism online.

  • Argentina kicked off their FIFA World Cup title defense on Wednesday with a dominant 3-0 victory against Algeria, beginning their 2026 campaign with a strong opening group-stage performance.
  • During the match, Messi was involved in an awkward studs-up challenge on Algeria defender Aissa Mandi; the referee awarded only a free kick despite social media calls for a red card.
  • Fans and commentators criticized the decision, with one user writing, 'Messi just got away with an absolutely disgusting challenge to an Algeria defenders leg.' Social media questioned the referee's leniency.
  • Messi's hat-trick allowed him to equal Miroslav Klose's legendary FIFA World Cup goal tally of 16 goals, with both icons now sharing the record for most tournament goals.
  • Reflecting on the performance, Messi said, 'We were well-positioned when we had the ball, and we managed the game very well,' as Argentina looks to carry momentum into upcoming fixtures.
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Right

What a spectacle for the World Cup start – Lionel Messi shot title defender Argentina alone with a hat-trick show for the opening victory against Algeria. In addition to numerous praise hymns, however, there is also great excitement about the superstar, who is lucky not to have to watch the duel with the ÖFB team. Exciting scene in the 31st minute: Lionel Messi climbed the Algerian defender Aissa Mandi from behind the Wade with an open sole. To …

·Vienna, Austria
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Lean Right

In a dream debut, Argentina scored 3-0 to Algeria on the first date of group J of the 2026 World Cup. The three goals were played by the star Lionel Messi, who at the age of 38 will play his last World Cup.

·Guayaquil, Ecuador
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Center

Erotuomariasiantuntija Jan-Peter Aravirta kertoo, miksi Lionel Messi olisi pitänyt poistaa kentältä ja miksi niin e tehty.

·Finland
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  • 41% of the sources lean Right
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Metrópoles broke the news on Wednesday, June 17, 2026.
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