Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez have reacted after Argentina’s dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Egypt secured their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, www.aclsports.com reports.
Argentina found themselves 2-0 down at the Atlanta Stadium before producing a remarkable late comeback, scoring three times to seal a memorable victory. Afterwards, Álvarez praised the team’s resilience and winning mentality.
Speaking after the match, Álvarez described the comeback as one of Argentina’s most significant performances in recent years.
“We are obviously very happy with the match we managed to win. I think it was one of the most important matches, or one of the best performances, from the Argentina national team in recent years because of how it happened and the stage we are at in a World Cup,” Álvarez said.
The forward, who returned to the starting lineup, said Argentina’s ability to adapt and fight until the final whistle remains one of the team’s greatest strengths.
“This is a team that adapts to any situation. We all give everything on the pitch. We showed character, and the heart of Argentinians is always something that pushes us forward,” he added.
Álvarez also hailed Lionel Messi after another influential display from the Argentina captain, who became the first player in FIFA World Cup history to score in six consecutive knockout-stage matches while extending his record by scoring in nine successive World Cup appearances.
“Personally, I feel very good, 100 per cent. Today I played 90 minutes and I felt very well. I always try to help the team in any way I can.
“As for Leo, there are not many words left to describe what he is doing at this World Cup. It is incredible. We try to help him, support him, and enjoy every moment alongside him.”
Meanwhile, Martínez admitted Argentina were under pressure after falling 2-0 behind but praised the team’s response.
“It was a very difficult match, a game that became complicated for us when we went 2-0 down.
“In the second half, especially after conceding the second goal, the team showed incredible character, humility and sacrifice. In the end, we earned this qualification because of the effort and merit we showed in the final stages of the match.”
Martínez said the comeback reflected Argentina’s mentality and determination to keep their World Cup campaign alive.
“To come back from 2-0 down with so little time remaining was certainly complicated. But once again, the team showed a lot of character, personality, and the desire to continue.
“In the end, we received a very deserved reward.”
The forward also highlighted Messi’s leadership, describing him as the team’s guide and reference point.
“You can see it reflected in what he does on the pitch. Everything he shows us every day is incredible. He is our guide, our reference point and our leader,” Martínez said.
“Seeing us run towards him at the end, and seeing him emotional, was special. This is his last World Cup and he has given us so much.”
Martínez insisted Argentina would continue taking the tournament one match at a time as they prepare for the quarter-finals, with the world champions now just two wins away from another FIFA World Cup final.
