Will Messi's Challenge Have Repercussions? Algeria Files Official Protest Against Referees

Messi, who scored a hat-trick in the match, struck Algerian defender Aissa Mandi directly on the calf with his boot. However, the 38-year-old eight-time Ballon d'Or winner did not even receive a yellow card for the challenge in the 30th minute.

“The complaint primarily concerns Messi's foul, which, in everyone's opinion, deserved a red card. There were also two elbow incidents, both warranting an expulsion,” AFP quoted a source from the FAF.

Algeria still has two matches remaining in the tournament. Their second fixture is against Jordan on June 23rd at 5:00 AM CEST, and they will conclude their group stage campaign against Austria on June 28th at 4:00 AM CEST. Should Vladimir Petković's squad advance to the knockout stage, it would mark only the second time in their history.