It's difficult to come back from 2-0 down: Messi after Argentina's stunning win over Egypt in FIFA World Cup R16 clash

Lionel Messi confessed that Argentina feared elimination after falling two goals behind against Egypt in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash. However, Cristian Romero's goal ignited belief, paving the way for a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory that sends the defending champions into the quarter-finals.

"When they went 2-0 up, I really saw it as being bad, and it was... it was difficult," Messi told broadcasters after the match. "That's why I think there was that bit of release and relief for everyone, right? Because we turned around an incredible match."

The match appeared to be slipping away from Argentina after Egypt took a commanding 2-0 lead in the 67th minute through Mostafa Ziko, who had earlier had a goal disallowed by VAR. Yasser Ibrahim had given the Pharaohs the lead in the 15th minute.

“

When they went 2-0 up, I really saw it as being bad, and it was... it was difficult. That's why I think there was that bit of release and relief for everyone, right? Because we turned around an incredible match.

Argentina's captain also noted that Romero's goal in the 79th minute was a turning point. "Like I just said, it's difficult to come back from 2-0 down, especially in this type of knockout round. But like I'm telling you, when we scored Cuti's (Romero) goal, I think we all internally felt that we were going to do it, that we were going to tie it," he said.

Romero's header from a Messi free-kick sparked the comeback. Messi then equalized four minutes later with a powerful strike. Enzo Fernandez completed the remarkable turnaround with a goal in stoppage time, securing Argentina's place in the quarter-finals where they will meet Switzerland.

“

Like I just said, it's difficult to come back from 2-0 down, especially in this type of knockout round. But like I'm telling you, when we scored Cuti's (Romero) goal, I think we all internally felt that we were going to do it, that we were going to tie it.