You would have sworn that the title defence was already complete. Such was Argentina’s euphoria after progressing to the Fifa World Cup quarter-finals that they even gave Lionel Messi the “bumps” during their post-match celebrations.
But no one could really blame them. Messi and his teammates deserved to celebrate in style after showing immense character to fight back from two goals down to beat Egypt 3-2 in an enthralling Round of 16 clash at Atlanta Stadium on Tuesday night.
Messi produced yet another Player of the Match performance. Although he missed a penalty in the first half, he sparked the dramatic comeback in the second stanza with a brilliant assist and a crucial equaliser, before Enzo Fernández wrapped up the victory in stoppage time.
With this performance, Messi etched his name even deeper into the history books, scoring his eighth goal of the tournament in just five games – and his 21st World Cup goal overall. This incredible milestone has firmly cemented his place at the top of the scoring charts for both this current tournament and the competition’s all-time history.
Messi’s majestic influence in Argentina’s title defense has arguably put him head and shoulders above his arch-rival Cristiano Ronaldo in the “Greatest of All Time” debate. This contrast became even more glaring after the 41-year-old Portuguese icon saw his team crash out in the Round of 16 on Monday night, confirming he will end his international career without ever lifting the World Cup.
Argentina will now face either Switzerland or Colombia for a spot in the semi-finals. A victory there would leave the reigning champions just two matches away from a successful title defense – an achievement that would undoubtedly certify Messi as the undisputed GOAT.
