Argentina pulled off one of the most dramatic comebacks in recent World Cup history on July 7, rallying from a 2-0 deficit to beat Egypt 3-2 in the round of 16.
After the final whistle at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, teammate Lautaro Martinez delivered a message that resonated far beyond the pitch. He urged the 39-year-old Messi to savor what is widely expected to be his last World Cup appearance.
The comeback that stopped the timeline
Argentina looked finished. Down two goals with the clock running out, they needed a miracle. They got three goals instead.
Messi scored the equalizer that brought the team back to life. Martinez provided an assist on one of the goals, and Enzo Fernandez delivered the winner that sent Argentina into the quarterfinals.
