The official Ballon d'Or social media account celebrated Lionel Messi's extraordinary performance against Egypt in the 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 16, a match that saw the Argentina captain inspire a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory. The organisers described the display as 'epic, a miracle and records,' adding that Messi 'never gives up' and hailing his '8-time Ballon d'Or winner style.'
Messi Rescues Argentina from World Cup Exit
Argentina faced a shock elimination after Egypt built a 2-0 lead and frustrated Lionel Scaloni's side for most of the match. The defending champions struggled to create clear opportunities and appeared to be running out of ideas as the clock ticked down. However, Messi delivered when his country needed him most. According to the BBC, he first supplied the cross that Cristian Romero converted to reduce the deficit, then scored the equaliser himself minutes later. Enzo Fernandez completed the remarkable turnaround in stoppage time, sealing a memorable 3-2 victory. The emotional scenes after the final whistle reflected the magnitude of Argentina's escape, with several players in tears while Messi was lifted into the air by his teammates.
Another Historic Night for Messi
Beyond inspiring the comeback, Messi rewrote the history books with several remarkable achievements. His goal against Egypt made him the first player ever to score in six consecutive FIFA World Cup knockout matches. He also became the oldest footballer to register both a goal and an assist in the same World Cup knockout fixture, underlining his extraordinary longevity. The strike was his eighth of the 2026 tournament, making him the first player since Germany legend Gerd Muller in 1970 to score eight goals within his nation's opening five matches of a single World Cup, per Opta. Messi also extended his own record by scoring in nine consecutive World Cup matches, a feat unmatched by any player in the competition's history.
Messi Climbs Ballon d'Or Rankings
The latest Ballon d'Or projections suggest Messi's World Cup display has strengthened his position in the race for football's biggest individual prize. According to Kalshi's live forecast, Harry Kane remains the favourite with a 29% probability after gaining two percentage points. France captain Kylian Mbappe slipped into second place with a 26% chance, representing the biggest decline among the leading contenders after dropping 12 percentage points. Messi is now third with a 15% probability, improving his chances by three percentage points following his heroics against Egypt. Current holder Ousmane Dembele occupies fourth place on 14% after losing seven percentage points, while Michael Olise is fifth with 10%. Erling Haaland's chances have improved to 8%, while Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal completes the top seven with a 7% probability.
World Cup Prizes Could Strengthen Messi's Case
While lifting another World Cup trophy would significantly boost Messi's credentials, individual honours at the tournament could also prove decisive in the Ballon d'Or race. Kalshi's latest projections show the Argentina captain is currently tied with Mbappe as the leading contender for the Golden Boot, with both players holding a 41% chance of finishing as the tournament's top scorer. Messi is also among the favourites for the Golden Ball, awarded to the competition's best player, where he currently has a 38% probability of claiming the prize. Winning either award, or completing a remarkable double, would considerably strengthen his bid for a record-extending ninth Ballon d'Or later this year.
Ballon d'Or Update Boosts Messi's Hopes
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that the Ballon d'Or organisers clarified the eligibility rules for this year's award, ending speculation over whether players based outside Europe could still compete for football's highest individual honour. The clarification means Messi, who currently plays club football outside Europe for Inter Miami, remains eligible for the prestigious prize, giving the Argentina legend another realistic opportunity to add a ninth Ballon d'Or to his unmatched collection if he continues his outstanding form at the World Cup.
