Lionel Messi once again showed why he is regarded as one of football’s greatest players after inspiring Argentina national football team to a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt national football team in the FIFA World Cup.
Argentina looked to be heading out of the tournament after falling 2-0 behind with less than 20 minutes left at Atlanta Stadium. Egypt took control through goals from Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Zico, while goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir produced a brilliant performance to frustrate the defending champions.
Messi also had a difficult night early on. The 39-year-old saw his first-half penalty saved by Shobeir, adding to his list of missed World Cup spot-kicks. At that stage, Argentina appeared to be on the verge of a shocking exit.
However, the South American giants refused to give up.
With 11 minutes remaining, Messi delivered a perfect cross for Cristian Romero, who headed home to make it 2-1 and give Argentina hope.
Just over four minutes later, Messi produced another moment of magic. The veteran forward fired a powerful left-footed shot that flew past Shobeir and went in off the crossbar to level the score at 2-2.
As Egypt struggled to recover from the late pressure, Argentina completed the turnaround in stoppage time when Enzo Fernández headed home the winning goal, sealing an incredible 3-2 victory.
The final whistle sparked emotional scenes. Messi, who had looked heartbroken when Argentina were two goals down, was left in tears as he celebrated with his team-mates. The Argentina players lifted him into the air while their fans filled the stadium with songs long after the match ended.
The victory keeps Argentina’s hopes of defending their World Cup title alive. Messi and his team will now face either Switzerland national football team or Colombia national football team in the quarter-finals as they continue their bid for another world title.
