Multiple outlets report that some fans claim the World Cup is “rigged” following an incident involving Argentina forward Lionel Messi during a match against Algeria. According to the reports, Messi becomes the focus of controversy after he appears to stamp or clip Algerian defender Aissa Mandi from behind while both players contest a challenge. The described contact targets Mandi’s calf and Achilles area. Despite the apparent nature of the foul, coverage says Messi is not shown a red card at that moment, and he later scores a hat-trick in the match. The articles frame the reaction as widespread fan criticism, with supporters and viewers on social media suggesting the outcome may have been influenced by officiating decisions. The reports do not cite any official change to the decision or provide additional disciplinary action within the summaries provided. Overall, the story centers on the combination of an alleged stamp incident, the absence of a red card, and Messi’s subsequent on-field success, which fans interpret as evidence supporting their rigged-tournament claims.