David Beckham has echoed Neymar's sentiments about Lionel Messi's conduct away from the football pitch, highlighting the Argentina legend's exceptional character. The Inter Miami co-owner praised Messi after the 39-year-old guided Argentina to the World Cup quarter-finals with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Egypt.
Messi's Dramatic World Cup Comeback
Messi has scored eight goals so far in the tournament, including a crucial strike in the comeback win against Egypt. The defending champions were trailing 2-0 with 11 minutes of normal time remaining when Cristian Romero, Messi, and Enzo Fernandez scored late goals to secure the victory. The 39-year-old was moved to tears after the match as teammates celebrated the remarkable turnaround.
Beckham and Neymar Praise Messi's Character
Following the Egypt match, Beckham posted on social media alongside an image of Messi, writing: "The is one very special Human. Not just because of what he does on the pitch but who is off it." In a separate post, he added: "Nothing more to say." These comments align with Neymar's earlier remarks to DSports: "Leo is a much better person off the field. He's good on the field, imagine what he's like off it. That's why I'm so glad I played with him. He's a great friend. We talk a lot. He knows I love him very much."
Controversy in Egypt Match
Egypt were left incensed after a second-half strike from Zico was controversially disallowed by VAR while they led 1-0. Officials also declined to review a penalty appeal when Mohamed Salah went down under a challenge from Alexis Mac Allister in the build-up to Fernandez's added-time winner. Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan raged: "We looked better than the reigning champions, better in everything, but the result was influenced by internal factors on the pitch and external factors off it. Perhaps they wanted to keep the world champion in the competition. Perhaps they wanted Messi to stay in the running."
Argentina's Path Forward
Argentina now face Switzerland in the quarter-finals on Sunday at 2am UK time. A win would set up a semi-final clash with England, provided Thomas Tuchel's side overcome Norway in their last-eight tie.
