Messi provided the assist that Romero headed home in the 79th minute to keep Argentina’s tournament hopes alive.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Argentina captain Lionel Messi has credited his team’s dramatic comeback against Egypt in their World Cup last-16 clash to Cristian Romero’s crucial goal, saying it “ignited hope” and triggered an incredible fightback.
The reigning champions were on the brink of being dumped out of the tournament after the North Africans took a shocking 2-0 lead.
However, Messi provided a pinpoint assist, which Romero converted via a header in the 79th minute of the match to keep the tie alive.
Two subsequent goals from the Inter Miami striker and Enzo Fernández ensured Argentina completed the comeback to eliminate Egypt.
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Speaking to Olé after the hard-fought win, Messi said: “It’s a relief, a catharsis.
“We couldn’t let our FIFA World Cup end today. We didn’t want to go home. After Romero scored, hope was ignited in each of us.
“This team has always shown me love, and it is a source of pride to fight alongside them,” he added.
Following their dramatic victory, Argentina will now face Switzerland on Sunday for a place in the semi-finals of the World Cup.
