Argentina quarter-final boost came at the perfect time as Lionel Messi returned to the top of the Golden Boot standings after leading the reigning champions into the World Cup quarter-finals with another impressive display — GoalNigeria.com reports.
The Argentina national football team recovered from two goals down to beat the Egypt national football team 3-2 and reach the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The defending champions looked to be heading out of the tournament before captain Lionel Messi led the fightback, scoring the equaliser and providing an assist as Argentina completed a dramatic comeback.
The victory keeps Argentina’s title defence alive and sets up a quarter-final meeting with the Switzerland national football team.
Messi Inspires Comeback As Argentina Recover
Argentina trailed by two goals before turning the match around in the second half, with Messi at the centre of the recovery.
The 39-year-old pulled Argentina level before creating another goal as the South Americans scored three unanswered goals to seal their place in the last eight.
It was another decisive contribution from the captain, who has now been directly involved in nine goals at the tournament.
Goal Sends Messi Back To Golden Boot Lead
Messi’s equaliser against Egypt took his tally to eight goals, moving him back to the top of the Golden Boot standings.
He moves one clear of Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland, who have both scored seven times, while Harry Kane is fourth with six.
With Argentina still in contention for the title, Messi will have further opportunities to extend his lead when the reigning champions face Switzerland in the quarter-finals.
Top scorers after the Round of 16:
• Lionel Messi (Argentina) – 8 goals (1 assist)
• Kylian Mbappé (France) – 7 goals (2 assists)
• Erling Haaland (Norway) – 7 goals
• Harry Kane (England) – 6 goals (1 assist)
