Lionel Messi has once again rewritten World Cup history. Argentina achieved a dramatic comeback victory against Egypt, overcoming a 0-2 deficit to advance to the quarterfinals.
On July 7, Argentina defeated Egypt 3-2 in the Round of 16 of the 2026 North Central America World Cup. After conceding an early goal to Yasser Ibrahim and a second goal to Mostafa Ziko in the 67th minute, Argentina faced elimination but completed an incredible turnaround in the final ten minutes.
The comeback began in the 79th minute when Messi's free kick was headed in by Cristian Romero, igniting hope for Argentina. Just four minutes later, Messi scored the equalizer, shaking off the disappointment of a missed penalty earlier in the match. In stoppage time, Lautaro Martinez's cross was headed in by Enzo Fernandez, sealing the 3-2 victory for Argentina.
Messi recorded one goal and one assist, further solidifying his place in World Cup history. According to domestic soccer fans, Messi now holds the following records: ▲ 31 World Cup matches ▲ 21 goals ▲ 9 assists, totaling 30 goal points.
Additionally, he has set records for ▲ most goals in World Cup history (21) ▲ most assists (9) ▲ most goal points (30) ▲ most matches played (31) ▲ most wins (21) ▲ most minutes played (2,994) ▲ most matches scored in (16) ▲ scoring in 9 consecutive matches ▲ most goal points in tournaments (14) ▲ scoring in 6 consecutive tournament matches ▲ most Player of the Match awards (15) ▲ and being the oldest player (39) to reach the World Cup quarterfinals.
As these records became known, one user asked, "Are there any records left for Messi to break?" Another responded, "His record from all previous matches," sparking admiration among fans.
Fans reacted with comments such as, "GOAT is ultimately GOAT," "Messi is no longer competing with other players but with his past self," "It’s unbelievable to see such influence at 39 in the World Cup," "He turned the game around with a goal and an assist after missing a penalty," and "He sets records and then breaks his own in the next match."
With this dramatic comeback, Argentina continues its quest for the championship. The world of soccer is eager to see what new records Messi will set next.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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