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World Cup: Messi speaks out on penalty miss following Argentina’s win
08th July, 2026 09:21 AM
Argentine maestro Lionel Messi has opened up on the dramatic scenes that encapsulated their round of 16 victory over Egypt on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, in Georgia, USA, admitting that he thought he had let Argentina down after his missed penalty in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The attacker was guilty of a missed penalty as the defending champions looked to get back in the clash after going down inside the opening 15 minutes.
The World Cup time leader, however, had his moment of redemption late, snatching the equaliser with five minutes left before Enzo Fernandes struck home in added time as Argentina made an incredible late rally, sealing a 3-2 comeback win to secure a spot in the quarterfinals.
Frustrations
“I had a lot of frustration over the missed penalty. I felt at the important moment I had let the team down. Luckily, I had something left in me again at the end of the game. I was able to find the equaliser, a huge relief and an enormous joy for us,” he said.
He also praised the fighting and unyielding spirit of the Albiceleste team, stating that the players once again demonstrated their fighting spirit that defines the defending champions’ character.
Argentina’s character
“I have said many times that this is a team that competes and always gives their all. And never gives up. That is why they achieved what they achieved, and tonight was a show of character, pride and wanting more,” he stated
“The truth is, I am very proud of this group. They always try to show day by day that they won’t give back. It was a relief: a relief for everyone,” he opined.
The clash marked a record-breaking streak of successive goals in a World Cup match as the star man grabbed his ninth successive goal to draw level with Gullermo Stabile’s 96-year-old record.
Switzerland next
“We were fortunate to get Cuti’s goal early in the second half. There was still plenty of time, and we managed to turn it around before the final whistle. What this team did in this knockout match is unbelievable. I am very happy that our fans can keep enjoying this journey and what we’re doing. Hopefully we can keep going,” he added.
Lionel Scaloni’s team will now face off against European side Switzerland in the quarterfinal on Saturday, with the winner facing the winner of the England vs. Norway clash.
