The Albiceleste has reignited the debate over possible referee favors in the 2026 World Cup, following their qualification to the final with a victory over Algeria. The latest episode, a hard tackle by Lionel Messi on Aïssa Mandi that only merited a yellow card, reopened the discussion on whether Argentina receives special treatment. The team arrives at this tournament with an unbeaten streak of five consecutive victories, including the 2-1 win over England on July 15, 2026. Their next challenge will be facing Spain on July 19, 2026.

Why is Argentina always at the center of referee controversies?

Argentina's history in the World Cups is marked by referee decisions that have generated controversy. From the 6-0 against Peru in 1978, where political pressures were suspected, to the iconic 'Hand of God' by Maradona in 1986, the episodes repeat. In the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, an unmarked offside by Carlos Tévez against Mexico was another example of decisions that favored the Albiceleste.

What happened in the match against Algeria?

Polish referee Szymon Marciniak was the protagonist of the latest chapter in this story. In the match against Algeria, a hard tackle by Messi on Mandi deserved, according to many, a red card. However, the official only showed a yellow, which generated criticism on social media and among analysts. This episode adds to a long list of decisions that, according to some, favor Argentina.

What does FIFA say about these cases?

FIFA has repeatedly denied that there are favors towards any team. However, the repetition of these episodes in past tournaments and in the current 2026 World Cup keeps the discussion alive. The Argentine team, with its impeccable streak of five victories, now seeks to focus on their next match against Spain, but the debate over refereeing remains present.