World Cup 2026: Emotional Messi Admits Penalty Miss Left Him in Tears After Argentina’s Stunning Comeback Against Egypt
2 min read
By Sedara Philip
Lionel Messi admitted he was overwhelmed with emotion after Argentina’s dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, revealing he broke down in tears after missing a crucial first-half penalty.
The Argentine captain played a pivotal role as the reigning world champions overturned a two-goal deficit to keep their title defence alive at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, but confessed he feared his missed spot-kick would cost his side a place in the quarter-finals.
Speaking after the remarkable victory, the 39-year-old, who has already confirmed this will be his final FIFA World Cup, said the squad never stopped believing despite staring elimination in the face.
«”We didn’t want and didn’t deserve to go home. We could not let it end like that,” Messi said.»
«”This group really deserved to keep going. We never give up at all. Never.”»
Argentina’s hopes suffered a major setback in the first half when Messi failed to convert from the penalty spot in the 35th minute, with Egypt goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy producing a crucial save while the South Americans were already trailing.
The missed opportunity left the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner devastated.
«”I cried because I felt that I let my teammates down because of the penalty I missed… and the way I took it,” he admitted.»
Things became even more difficult after Egypt doubled their advantage early in the second half, leaving Argentina on the brink of a shock elimination.
However, the world champions responded in sensational fashion.
Messi ignited the comeback by providing the assist for Cristian Romero’s header before scoring the equaliser himself to restore hope for Lionel Scaloni’s side.
With extra time seemingly inevitable, Enzo Fernández struck deep into stoppage time to complete one of the tournament’s most dramatic turnarounds, sending Argentina into the quarter-finals.
Despite the early heartbreak, Messi expressed gratitude that the story ended in celebration rather than disappointment.
«”But thankfully once again, God had something special for me in the end. I’m very happy,” he said.»
Argentina’s dramatic triumph keeps alive their quest to successfully defend the FIFA World Cup title, with the South American giants now set to face Switzerland in the quarter-finals as they continue their pursuit of more World Cup history.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
