Lionel Messi explains tears after Argentina's dramatic win to reach World Cup quarter‑finals

Lionel Messi said he was haunted by a missed penalty during Argentina's 3‑2 comeback victory over Egypt at the 2026 World Cup, which secured the Albiceleste a place in the quarter‑finals. He described feeling “a lot of anger” for his error and credited the team's later goals, including his own equaliser and a decisive assist, for the win. The match also saw Messi become the tournament’s all‑time leading scorer with 21 goals.

The tournament has also drawn criticism over referee decisions involving Argentina. Messi received no card after a hard tackle on an Algerian player in the group stage, and officials have awarded three penalties to Argentina so far, the most of any team. Commentators have questioned the consistency of the officiating, highlighting missed calls against Egypt and Algeria.

Argentina will face Switzerland in the quarter‑finals, looking to continue their unbeaten run after a perfect group‑stage record.