Lionel Messi achieves World Cup first since Diego Maradona! Magical Argentine emulates fellow countryman during thrilling World Cup great escape act against Egypt

Historic comeback stuns the world

Argentina executed one of the most dramatic turnarounds in tournament history to

According to OptaJoe, Argentina were trailing as of the 78th minute, which is the latest any team has ever been two or more goals down in a FIFA World Cup game and come back to win without going to extra-time. Messi sparked the revival by equalising in the 83rd minute after Cristian Romero had pulled a goal back. Enzo Fernandez then headed home the winner in stoppage time, shattering Egyptian dreams and completing a miraculous escape.

78 - 🇦🇷 Argentina were trailing as of the 78th minute, the latest any team has ever been 2+ goals down in a FIFA World Cup game and come back to win without going to extra time (3-2).

Legendary. pic.twitter.com/sQUtiaoAbL— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) July 7, 2026

Matching a legendary milestone

The dramatic victory was driven by an absolute masterclass from Messi, who replicated a statistical feat not seen for four decades. Messi tormented the Egyptian defence throughout the match, combining elite goalscoring with supreme creative playmaking.

OptaJoe

2 - The last two players to score, complete 5+ dribbles, and create 5+ open play chances in a @FIFAWorldCup match:

🇦🇷 Lionel Messi v Egypt (2026)
🇦🇷 Diego Maradona v Belgium (1986)

Catalysts. pic.twitter.com/iTWhfMSjDh— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) July 7, 2026

Unprecedented goalscoring form

Beyond his creative brilliance, Messi has reached extraordinary goalscoring heights at this tournament. Even though Messi missed an earlier penalty against goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir, he maintained his composure to deliver when it mattered most. His late equaliser means he has now scored eight goals at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As noted by OptaJoe, this is the most by a player through a team’s opening five games of a single edition since Germany's Gerd Muller in 1970, who netted 10 times. Such clinical finishing highlights how Messi has evolved his game, ensuring Argentina remain a lethal attacking force as they navigate the immense pressure of the latter stages of the competition in North America.

Looking ahead to the quarter-finals

Argentina will now prepare for their highly anticipated quarter-final clash, carrying immense momentum from this historic 3-2 triumph. With Messi operating at an elite level and breaking long-standing records, the squad look exceptionally dangerous. Opponents will need to devise flawless defensive strategies to contain Messi as Argentina continue their relentless pursuit of another global crown.