Lionel Messi described his emotions during Argentina’s thrilling 3-2 victory against Egypt, which secured their advancement to the World Cup quarter-finals, as “a release” in what may have been his last international match.
The 39-year-old exhibited a rare display of passion following a remarkable last 16 match in Atlanta, which nearly led to the reigning champions’ unexpected elimination. I believe it was liberation, a reprieve for all. It was an unfortunate moment at 2-0,” Messi said to reporters.
The Argentina captain saw a first-half penalty thwarted as Egypt surged to a 2-0 advantage. However, Messi also spearheaded the late resurgence.
His cross set up Cristian Romero to reduce the deficit 11 minutes before the end, after which the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner scored the equalizer.
Enzo Fernandez finished the comeback during stoppage time, establishing a quarter-final matchup against Colombia or Switzerland. Messi continued, “It wasn’t easy to turn a game around like that—coming back from a 2-0 deficit—especially considering how this World Cup is going and the fact that nobody is just rolling over.” It was a moment of unadulterated joy and relief; we aspired to remain in the competition. We wished for today not to conclude; we desired to remain rather than return home.
Messi was elevated by his teammates in celebration after scoring his 21st World Cup goal and eighth of this tournament, regaining the lead in the competition for the Golden Boot.
He underscored that Romero’s goal was the crucial moment that transformed the match’s dynamics. Today demonstrated resilience, as overcoming a deficit is arduous. That was a significant setback for all. Fortunately, we achieved that objective. That was the moment when everyone present sensed it and believed it was achievable, that we would succeed. We were fortunate to equalize and subsequently secure victory within 90 minutes. We persevered completely; the accomplishments of this group were truly remarkable.
