Atlanta, July 8 -- Defending champions Argentina captain Lionel Messi admitted his side feared elimination after falling two goals behind against Egypt but said Cristian Romero's strike reignited belief as La Albiceleste produced a dramatic 3-2 comeback to reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals here on Tuesday.

"When they went 2-0 up, I really saw it as being bad, and it was... it was difficult. That's why I think there was that bit of release and relief for everyone, right? Because we turned around an incredible match," Messi told the host broadcasters after Argentina's Round of 16 victory.

The Argentina captain said Romero's goal changed the mood within the team and convinced the players they could rescue the contest despite fac...