World Cup 2026: ‘We didn’t want to go home’ â?? Messi after Argentina’s stunning comeback against Egypt

World Cup 2026: ‘We didn’t want to go home’ â?? Messi after Argentina’s stunning comeback against Egypt

An emotional Lionel Messi broke down in tears after Argentina’s remarkable 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt in the World Cup Round of 16, admitting he felt he had let his teammates down after missing a first-half penalty.

The 39-year-old captain was overwhelmed with emotion as he spoke to reporters following the dramatic win at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, which saw Argentina fight back from two goals down to snatch victory in stoppage time.

Messi, who confirmed before the tournament this would be his final World Cup, was candid about the team’s mindset heading into the knockout clash.

“We didn’t want and didn’t deserve to go home. We could not let it end like that,” he said.

“This group really deserved to keep going. We never give up at all. Never.”

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner revealed the weight he carried after his penalty was saved by Egypt goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy in the 35th minute with Argentina already trailing 1-0.

“I cried because I felt that I let my teammates down because of the penalty I missed… and the way I took it,” Messi admitted.

Argentina fell further behind early in the second half, trailing 2-0 and staring at a shock exit. But Messi led the fightback, assisting Cristian Romero’s header in the 79th minute before scoring the equaliser himself.

Enzo Fernandez completed the comeback deep into stoppage time, sparking wild celebrations among the Argentine players and fans.

Messi’s miss from the spot weighed heavily, but he found solace in the final outcome.

“But thankfully once again, God had something special for me in the end. I’m very happy,” he said.

Argentina’s Round of 16 victory over Egypt means they will face the winner of Switzerland vs Colombia in the quarter-finals.

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