Lionel Messi became the center of controversy after a dangerous tackle on Djed Spence in the 2026 World Cup semi-finals, making this the second time the Argentine superstar escaped a card even though VAR could completely have intervened.
The 2026 World Cup semi-final match between Argentina and England did not only bring a dramatic score pursuit, but also left a fierce wave of controversy centered around Lionel Messi. The 39-year-old superstar became the focus of attention after a dangerous tackle on defender Djed Spence, but still did not receive any punishment from the referee or VAR, causing Three Lions fans to express outrage on social media.
The controversial situation took place in the midfield area in the second half. While engaging in a challenge for the ball, Messi timed his tackle late and his studs made contact with Spence’s shin area. The England defender immediately fell to the pitch in pain, while players in white shirts along with the coaching staff reacted fiercely, demanding the referee issue a red card to the Argentina captain.
Many England fans argued that Messi’s tackle was dangerous enough to warrant a direct red card, while also questioning the role of VAR in such a sensitive situation.
Notably, this is not the first time Messi has been involved in controversy over fouls at the 2026 World Cup. Previously, in the group stage against Algeria, the Argentina captain also had a tackle from behind on center-back Aissa Mandi. Messi’s studs made contact with the opponent’s calf area back then, but the referee did not pull out a card and VAR did not intervene either.
