Former Premier League referee Mark Halsey has ignited controversy by claiming Lionel Messi should have been sent off during Argentina's World Cup victory over Algeria. The Argentine captain delivered a hat-trick in Dallas City, but his earlier challenge on Aissa Mandi has drawn sharp criticism.
Messi's Controversial Challenge
Messi opened the scoring for Argentina after just 17 minutes. However, while chasing the ball, he stamped on the back of Mandi's leg, sending the Algerian player to the ground in pain. The 38-year-old's studs made firm contact, and he immediately raised his hands in apology. Despite the severity of the challenge, Messi remained on the pitch without even a yellow card.
Halsey's Verdict
Speaking to the Sun, Halsey argued that Messi should have received a straight red card. He stated: 'The referee, Marciniak, was in an excellent position and refereed the game well. But when you look at the incident, Messi endangered the player's safety. The ball was not within playing distance, so it is not serious foul play; it has to be violent conduct, classed as a stamp.'
Halsey expressed surprise that VAR did not recommend a review, especially compared to an earlier incident in the tournament. He referenced the opening game between Mexico and South Africa, where Themba Zwane was penalized for violent conduct after a VAR review. 'For me, that was never violent conduct, and VAR should not have gotten involved. But they got involved there and not here. It is absolutely barmy. Messi was a very, very lucky player,' Halsey added.
Call for FIFA Explanation
Halsey challenged FIFA referee chief Pierluigi Collina to explain why Messi was not sent off. 'Did that challenge endanger the player's safety? For me, it did. If any player rakes their studs down the back of your calf, that could put you out for a long time. I would like to hear Collina's version of that incident when they hold their press conference,' Halsey said.
Messi went on to score two more fine goals, securing a 3-0 victory for Argentina and putting them in control of Group J, which also includes Austria and Jordan. The incident has sparked debate about consistency in officiating at the World Cup.
