Argentina's controversial run to World Cup semi-finals from Lionel Messi avoiding red to 'one-sided' claims

Argentina's controversial run to World Cup semi-finals from Lionel Messi avoiding red to 'one-sided' claims

Argentina's run to the World Cup semi-finals has been full of controversy, with claims that decisions have gone largely in their favour. From Lionel Messi's high-footed challenge to claims of referees being "one-sided", the world champions have had the lion's share of refereeing decisions go their way. England face Argentina tonight at 8pm, and while there is no definitive answer to the claims, it does feel that Messi and his team-mates have received some rather fortunate decisions during the tournament so far. GB News analyses five incidents at the 2026 World Cup that have gone in Argentina's favour. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Lionel Messi avoids red card Arguably the biggest talking point is Lionel Messi avoiding a red card after a stamp in Argentina's first group stage match against Algeria. The superstar's left foot was very high on Algeria captain Aissa Mandi, laying his studs into the back of the full-back's calf. Algeria were awarded a free-kick, and a red card looked nailed on, but the incident was not reviewed by VAR, and Messi got away scot-free. The North African side lodged a complaint to FIFA over the officiating, also alleging that Alexis Mac Allister elbowed Ibrahim Maza. LATEST SPORTS NEWS Thomas Tuchel sets the record straight on Jude Bellingham ahead of England and Argentina clash John McEnroe suffers massive pay cut but Gary Lineker receives huge sum as BBC salary list revealed 'Absolutely ludicrous!' Council staff caught cutting down England flag ahead of World Cup semi-final Austria unhappy with officials after Alexis Mac Allister challenge Austria manager Ralf Rangnick was left fuming after Alexis Mac Allister's strong challenge was not given as a foul before Messi's opening goal. The Argentine midfielder appeared to foul Xaver Schlager, but no free-kick was awarded, and VAR did not feel the need to intervene. Rangnick said: "For the first goal, I would've asked the fourth official to do what he did before the penalty k