World Cup 2026: Algeria FA files complaint to FIFA over refereeing decisions in Argentina defeat

The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has reportedly submitted a complaint to FIFA over refereeing decisions made during Algeria’s 3-0 defeat by Argentina in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup.

The federation’s move comes two days after the match, with Algerian officials seeking explanations over several incidents involving Polish referee Szymon Marciniak and the video assistant referee (VAR) system.

While Algeria have not disputed Argentina’s overall superiority in the match, the FAF believes some key moments during the game were not handled correctly by the officials and could have influenced the outcome.

One of the main incidents highlighted in the complaint involves a challenge between Lionel Messi and Algeria defender Aïssa Mandi.

Footage reviewed after the match appeared to show the Argentina captain making contact with Mandi’s calf during a duel, leading to discussions among supporters and football observers over whether further action should have been taken.

According to reports, the Algerian federation believes the incident deserved stronger punishment and has questioned why VAR did not intervene, with some observers suggesting that a red card could have been considered.

The FAF has also raised another situation involving Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister and Algeria international Ibrahim Maza.

The incident occurred in the 74th minute when Mac Allister was accused of making contact with Maza’s face with his elbow during a challenge. The referee did not award any disciplinary punishment for the moment.

Algerian officials believe both incidents were significant and could have affected the direction of the match if they had been punished.

The purpose of the complaint, according to reports, is to receive clarification from FIFA regarding the decisions made during the game rather than change the result.

FIFA has not yet issued a public response to the request.

The result remains unchanged, with Argentina securing a convincing victory through Lionel Messi’s hat-trick. Algeria must now focus on their remaining group matches against Jordan and Austria as they look to recover and keep their qualification hopes alive.