Lionel Messi reveals why he cried after victory against Egypt

Lionel Messi Reveals Emotional Reason Behind Tears After Argentina’s Dramatic Comeback Against Egypt

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has opened up about the emotional reason behind the tears he shed following his country’s dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over the Egypt national football team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16.

The 39-year-old admitted that his emotions were fuelled by guilt and relief after missing a first-half penalty, rather than simply celebrating Argentina’s qualification for the quarter-finals.

Despite the costly miss, Messi played a decisive role in Argentina’s stunning turnaround, helping inspire the defending champions to one of the tournament’s most memorable comebacks.

Speaking after the match, the Argentine captain explained why he became emotional at the final whistle.

“I cried because I felt that I let my teammates down because of the penalty I missed and the way I took it. But thankfully, once again, God had something special for me in the end. I’m very happy.”

Argentina appeared destined for a shock exit after falling 2-0 behind against a determined Egyptian side. However, the reigning world champions mounted an incredible late fightback.

Cristian Romero pulled a goal back to spark the revival before Messi levelled the score to breathe life into Argentina’s hopes. Deep into stoppage time, Enzo Fernández rose highest to head home the dramatic winner, completing a remarkable 3-2 comeback and sending Argentina into the last eight.

Reflecting on the team’s resilience, Messi praised the character and determination shown by his teammates.

“We didn’t want and didn’t deserve to go home. We could not let it end like that. This group really deserved to keep going. We never give up. Never.”

After enduring one of the most difficult moments of his World Cup career with the missed penalty, Messi redeemed himself when Argentina needed him most. His influential display, which included a crucial goal and an assist, ensured the defending champions kept alive their dream of retaining the FIFA World Cup title.

Argentina will now shift their focus to a quarter-final showdown with the Switzerland national football team as Messi and his teammates continue their pursuit of back-to-back FIFA World Cup crowns.