World Cup 2026: We suffered a lot against Egypt – Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez admits

Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez has admitted that the reigning world champions endured a difficult battle against Egypt during their dramatic 3-2 victory in the FIFA World Cup round of 16.

The South American giants were forced to fight back after falling two goals behind, with Egypt taking a commanding lead before the South American side produced a stunning comeback to secure a place in the quarter-finals.

Argentina will now face Switzerland in the last eight on Sunday morning, but Martinez acknowledged that Egypt pushed them to their limits throughout the encounter.

Speaking in an interview reported by TyC Sports, Martinez revealed his frustration after Egypt scored their second goal through Mostafa Zico.

“After Egypt’s second goal, I felt completely helpless, and this feeling doesn’t sit well with me. I think my turn will come. I have to give them more support, as they save me in many matches, and it’s my turn to give them support,” Martinez said.

The goalkeeper also disclosed that Lionel Messi was disappointed after missing a penalty during the first half, but insisted the captain has repeatedly delivered for the team when it mattered most.

“Leo felt guilty at halftime, but he saved us many times, and that’s why I have to play better,” he added.

Martinez explained that emotions ran high after the tense encounter because of the pressure of representing Argentina on football’s biggest stage.

“It’s natural to shed tears because you feel you’re going home and you haven’t given enough to the fans. We don’t want to disappoint anyone, and we want to represent ourselves as Argentinians. Although we don’t have what Europeans have, we try to be happy and do our best,” he said.

The Aston Villa goalkeeper also reflected on Argentina’s difficult journey at the tournament, comparing their struggles against Egypt and Cape Verde with the challenges they faced in the previous World Cup.

“We were talking to the players about how we did not go through what we went through in those two matches in the last World Cup, where we suffered a lot. It is good to face what is coming, and if we have to suffer, we will. I think we will have a match on our way where we will not suffer much,” Martinez concluded.