Lionel Messi has spoken after Argentina's dramatic comeback victory against Egypt in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16, a match that saw the defending champions rally from two goals down to win 3-2.
Argentina on the Brink
Egypt stunned Argentina by taking a 2-0 lead through goals from Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Ziko, holding that advantage until the 78th minute. Argentina appeared headed for an early exit before Messi sparked a remarkable turnaround.
Messi Inspires the Comeback
The captain assisted Cristian Romero for the first goal in the 78th minute, then scored the equalizer four minutes later—his eighth goal of the tournament. With the match seemingly headed for extra time, Lautaro Martinez carried the ball the length of the pitch and set up Enzo Fernandez for a 92nd-minute winner.
Messi was named man of the match for the fourth time in the tournament after another inspirational performance.
Messi's Reaction
Speaking after the game, Messi expressed his joy at the victory. 'I just feel happiness for qualifying. We qualified. It was very difficult, especially when we were 2-0 down, and it was very exciting to come back again, suffer again, but this is the World Cup and all the matches have been very similar. They're evenly matched, so I'm really happy,' he said, as quoted by The Athletic.
He praised his teammates for their never-say-die attitude. 'We are bouncing back again. We felt relieved. It wasn't easy to come back from 2-0 down, but this group never gives up, always fights to the end and we're very lucky to see the goals and turn the game around,' he added. 'It's crazy what this group did in these knockout rounds. I'm extremely happy for the people who can enjoy our celebrations.'
Match Winner Fernandez Speaks
Enzo Fernandez, who scored the winning goal, described the moment as long-awaited. 'I'd been longing for that goal for about three years, since the Qatar World Cup. Being able to experience moments like this, honestly, I thank God; I'm privileged,' he told FIFA.
'I want to highlight my teammates - we have a phenomenal group, a group that never gives up no matter the difficulties and adversity. We're always together. Thanks to my teammates, to the coaching staff, and to everyone cheering us on here and all the Argentinians back home in Argentina. One more step forward.'
CAF Message to Egypt
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) sent a message to Egypt after the Pharaohs surrendered a two-goal lead and were eliminated from the World Cup. Argentina proved their champion mentality by scoring three goals in the final 12 minutes to continue their title defense.
