Argentina striker Lautaro Martínez says he was moved after seeing captain Lionel Messi in tears following the team’s dramatic comeback victory over Egypt at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking after the match, Lautaro said Messi’s emotional reaction reflected the significance of the victory. “When I saw Leo Messi crying on the field, I told him that I cried too because he deserves it,” he said.
Forward Julián Álvarez also praised the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, saying Messi continues to demonstrate why he is regarded as one of football’s greatest players.
“We saw Messi very affected by his goal. He scored a new goal, and he continues to prove that he is a great legend,” Álvarez said, adding: “We are happy to enjoy playing alongside him, supporting him and accompanying him.”
Midfielder Enzo Fernández, who scored a crucial goal in Argentina’s comeback, described it as the biggest goal of his career and credited the team’s resilience.
“I just scored the goal of my life. We were on the way out, but we pushed with everything we’ve got. We are a team with heart,” Fernández said.
