ATLANTA — Lionel Messi proved he is just like anyone else.
The Argentine star missed a penalty early in the round-of-16 match against Egypt on Tuesday, which could have leveled the score to 1-1 in the first half. Instead, Egypt led at halftime and even increased their advantage to 2-0 in the 67th minute.
However, destiny had other plans. After Cristian Romero narrowed the gap to 2-1, Messi scored the equalizer, allowing Argentina to pull off a remarkable World Cup comeback, ultimately winning 3-2 with a stoppage-time header from Enzo Fernández.
After scoring the equalizer in the 83rd minute, bringing his tournament total to a record eighth goal, Messi celebrated by running to the corner flag, jumping in excitement, and acknowledging the passionate Argentina fans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
“It was a moment of pure release for all of us,” Messi reflected after the match, expressing his frustration over the missed penalty. “I felt like I let the team down in such a crucial moment. But thankfully, something special happened in the end, and I managed to score the equalizer.
“That was a huge weight lifted off my shoulders, and immense joy for us and our loyal fans who show what it means to be Argentine every day.”
Messi was seen in tears as the final whistle blew, capping off the remarkable comeback, as teammates rushed to celebrate with their captain, possibly in his last World Cup appearance.
The defending champions lifted Messi in jubilation, celebrating another incredible turnaround on the pitch.
“Messi’s leadership is evident on the field. What he demonstrates every day inspires us,” said Lautaro Martínez post-match. “Seeing his emotion today, I reminded him to enjoy the moment because he truly deserves it.”
“We promised to give everything for ourselves and even more for him, considering it’s his last World Cup and how much he has given us.”
Manager Lionel Scaloni also displayed his emotions, sharing tears with Messi at the final whistle. Despite Messi’s age, Scaloni noted how the Inter Miami CF forward continues to create unforgettable moments as he nears retirement.
“I’m deeply emotional; the players tease me about being a crybaby. I even shed a few tears in the dressing room,” Scaloni remarked. “But this experience is unforgettable, one of the best moments in my career so far. Messi plays for these moments. He loves the game and the emotion involved, and we want him to cherish every last second before he retires—regret has no place in this sport.”
“The determination this team shows in challenging situations is inspiring, and sometimes tactics take a back seat when you just have to push through.”
With his goal, Messi now holds the record for scoring in six consecutive World Cup knockout matches, marking his ninth consecutive game with a goal in the tournament.
His equalizer moved him ahead in the Golden Boot standings, now leading Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland, who have both netted seven goals in this World Cup. Messi has amassed a total of 125 goals for Argentina across 204 matches since his international debut in 2005.
“Words can’t capture how outstanding Leo is. His performance this World Cup is incredible. We’re here to support him and share in every moment,” said Julián Álvarez after the match. “We owe him so much for everything he does for us.”
“He is a legend, the best player in the world.”
Argentina will face Switzerland in the quarterfinals on July 11 in Kansas City, Missouri.
Report contributed by ESPN writer Mark Ogden.