Algeria Files FIFA Complaint Over Messi’s Raised-Stud Tackle in World Cup Opener

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The Algerian Football Federation has officially challenged key refereeing decisions after their 3-0 loss to Argentina in the World Cup group stage. Officials are protesting a 30th-minute incident where Lionel Messi’s studs caught defender Aissa Mandi. They also highlighted an unpunished elbow by Alexis Mac Allister on Ibrahim Maza. Head coach Vladimir Petkovic and an internal source told a leading sports outlet that the federation feels its players weren’t adequately protected. FIFA has not yet responded publicly. With the complaint submitted, Argentina now turn to their remaining Group J fixtures against Austria and Jordan.

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