Lionel Messi Fails To Hold Back Tears After Breaking Diego Maradonas World Cup Record As Argentina Enter Quarterfinal

Lionel Messi once again delivered when Argentina needed him most, producing another unforgettable World Cup performance that added another chapter to his remarkable career. The Argentina captain could not hold back his tears after the final whistle as the defending champions completed an incredible 3 2 comeback victory over Egypt in the round of 16 to keep their title defence alive.

It had been a night of frustration for Messi. Nothing seemed to go his way in the first half, and his saved penalty marked his second miss from the spot in this tournament. With Egypt leading 2 0 well into the second half, Argentina appeared to be heading for a shock exit.

The emotional evening also brought another milestone. Messi's assist for Romero was the ninth of his World Cup career, taking him past Diego Maradona for the most assists in the tournament's history. It was another record for the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, whose influence once again proved decisive as Argentina survived a huge scare and marched into the quarterfinals.

With extra time looming, Enzo Fernandez nodded in a sensational winner in the second minute of time added on to finally break Egypt's resistance.

"Being able to experience moments like this, honestly, I thank God, I'm privileged," Fernandez said afterwards.

"I want to highlight my team-mates - we have a phenomenal group, a group that never gives up no matter the difficulties and adversity. We're always together," the Chelsea midfielder added.