Argentina hit with two unpunished fouls in World Cup win over Austria

Argentina advanced to the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 2-0 victory over Austria on Monday evening. Lionel Messi scored twice to secure the win and became the all-time top scorer in World Cup history with a total of 13 goals. The Albiceleste finished top of their group before the final matchday. The match saw two high-profile incidents go unpunished by the match officials. Messi made a heavy foul on Algeria’s Mandi in the group stage, crushing his foot onto the Algerian’s calf. No red card was shown despite widespread calls for one. The incident circulated widely on social media, with fans criticizing the lack of VAR intervention.

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Lautaro Martinez committed a reckless challenge on Austria’s Konrad Laimer, leaving the Bayern Munich midfielder injured. No card was awarded, and when Laimer approached the referee to protest, he was dismissed without a hearing. Observers described the referee’s reaction as dismissive and accused the officials of showing undue leniency. Critics point to a pattern of favorable decisions for Argentina, including contentious penalties awarded during their 2022 World Cup triumph. The quarter-final against the Netherlands resurfaced in debates, where Messi handled the ball without receiving a second yellow card. These incidents fuel perceptions of injustice, even as Argentina’s quality remains undisputed.

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Belgium currently sit second in their group and would face Australia in the Round of 16 if they qualify. A potential clash with Argentina awaits in the next round, a tie widely anticipated to be far more competitive than earlier stages.