Lionel Messi wrote his name in World Cup history once more on Tuesday – becoming only the second player to score in five tournaments – but the defending champion’s 1‑0 lead over Algeria was overshadowed by a stamp that has left fans claiming the competition is rigged.
The 38‑year‑old Argentina captain struck early in the Group J match in Kansas City, Missouri, sparking celebrations with Rodrigo de Paul. The goal put Messi alongside Cristiano Ronaldo as the only men to find the net in five different World Cups.
“Messi scored early to become 2nd man in 5 World Cups, then stamped on Mandi without a red card, sparking rigging claims.”
Yet within minutes, the fairytale turned ugly. Television replays showed Messi appear to stamp on the calf and Achilles area of Algeria’s Aissa Mandi from behind as he tried to make a tackle. No red card was shown, and the incident quickly triggered a frenzy among supporters who took to social media to claim the tournament is rigged.
Messi’s milestone moment – and the controversy that followed – ensured Argentina’s opening match will be remembered for more than just the scoreline. The defending champions now face questions over whether the game’s biggest star receives special treatment, a charge the governing body has not addressed.