Lionel Messi, considered one of the best soccer stars in the world, broke down on the football pitch after scoring a goal in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria in the 2026 World Cup match-up.
The 38-year-old athlete was asked about the moment.
He responded in Spanish, saying, (via the AP), “My tears after the first goal? I’ve had some tough days. It wasn’t related to football. And those feelings were because of that. I thank my teammates, the coaching staff and the delegation for helping me.”
He did not elaborate on what has been “tough” on him these past few days.
His wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and three sons, Thiago, Mateo and Ciro, were in attendance at the game on Tuesday (June 17).
“At a loss for words about Leo. What can I say?” Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni remarked about his performance. “He’s incredible.”
He scored all three goals in the team’s win.
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