Lionel Messi was reduced to tears after inspiring one of the most extraordinary comebacks in World Cup history, as Argentina overturned a two-goal deficit to beat Egypt 3-2 in Atlanta — a result that sent furious fans accusing FIFA of rigging the tournament in the Argentine's favour.
The reigning world champions appeared destined for a last-16 exit when Mohamed Salah threaded a pass to Mostka Ziko, handing the Pharaohs a stunning 2-0 second-half advantage. But after jubilant Egyptian celebrations, referee Francois Letexier was summoned by VAR to examine a possible foul in the build-up. Following considerable protest from Argentine players, defender Lisandro Martinez was deemed to have been unlawfully brought down — an offence that occurred more than 20 seconds before Ziko fired past goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
“Messi in tears as Argentina fight back from 2-0 down to beat Egypt 3-2 amid VAR fury and rigging claims.”
"This tournament is rigged. Corruption at display, robbing Egypt of the goal," one fan posted on X. "Rigged like always," another wrote. "The World Cup is rigged for Messi," one tweeted. Moments later, Messi struck a stunning volley to draw Argentina level at 2-2. Enzo Fernandez then powered home a stoppage-time header to seal a 3-2 victory in what ranks among the most remarkable comebacks in World Cup history.
The VAR controversy adds to a tournament already dominated by the technology. US forward Folarin Balogun was contentiously shown a red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina after a fairly innocuous collision; his one-match ban was eventually suspended and downgraded to a fine.
In the ITV studio, Roy Keane was screaming Argentina on. When coverage cut back to New York, the Irishman could hardly speak. "My voice is gone. I loved it," he croaked. "Yesterday we saw sad tears from [Cristiano] Ronaldo. Today we see happy tears from Messi. [Argentina] will not give up. The quality of their goals were amazing. Wow. This is why we love the game. Absolutely amazing."
Argentina now face Switzerland or Colombia in the quarter-finals. England, who believe football might finally be coming home after 60 years of hurt, are projected to meet Argentina in the semi-finals if they get past Norway. But on today's evidence, the Albiceleste are unlikely to make light work of either opponent — though with Messi in this form, anything seems possible.