Former Bundesliga Referee: Messi Should Have Been Sent Off in 2026 World Cup Match Against Argentina

Former Bundesliga referee Patrick Ittrich has argued that Lionel Messi should have been sent off during Argentina’s 2026 World Cup group‑stage opener against Algeria.

Messi was the star of the match, scoring all three goals in a 3‑0 victory for the defending champions.

His hat‑trick made him the oldest player ever to score three goals in a World Cup match, surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo. It also brought him level with former German striker Miroslav Klose, who has 16 World Cup goals.

However, the game was marred by a controversial incident that prompted many fans and pundits to question the officiating, with some arguing that Messi should not have been on the field to achieve the feat.

In the 31st minute, while contesting the ball, Messi stepped on the calf and Achilles tendon of Algerian player Aissa Mandi.

Also Read: World Cup 2026: Why I Cried After Netting Hat‑Trick Against Algeria – Messi

The video assistant referee did not intervene, and Polish referee Szymon Marciniak issued only a warning. This decision angered many football fans who felt Messi warranted a booking.

Responding to the incident, Ittrich said that, according to the laws of the game, Messi deserved a red card.

“For me, that is a red card. We have various examples from the Bundesliga where that was punished with a red,” Ittrich told broadcaster MagentaTV, where he works as a rules analyst.

“By the letter of the law, that is a red. If I had seen it like that on the pitch, I would have shown red. If the referee had shown red, it definitely would not have been overturned.”

Messi is aiming to lead Argentina to a fourth World Cup title after their triumph in Qatar 2022.

He scored a brace in the final against France, which ended 3‑3, with Argentina winning on penalties.

By James Agberebi

James Agberebi

James is a sport content creator and also does analysis on sports. Also, James has covered international matches involving both Nigeria’s men and women national teams. Facebook : James Agberebi