'We're here to win it again' – Enzo Fernández after Argentina's win over Egypt

“We’ve put Qatar behind us. We came here to represent our country at a World Cup and win it again,” Argentina’s Enzo Fernández said on Tuesday after his side’s memorable 3–2 comeback victory over Egypt in the Round of 16 of the World Cup.

“We’ve got a phenomenal group that never gives up, no matter the adversity,” said the Chelsea midfielder, who scored the third goal to complete the turnaround in Atlanta.

“I’d been longing for that goal for three years,” he added.

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni was unable to speak to the media, overcome with emotion and in tears.

“I can’t… I’m too emotional,” he managed to tell Argentine television before apologising to the interviewer and walking away.

His assistant, Roberto Ayala, also in tears, said the Argentina squad “never tire, always want more, and are capable of producing moments like this,” given they had been trailing 2–0 until the 79th minute.

“What we’ve done tonight is incredibly difficult,” said striker Lautaro Martínez. “It’s a match that will be remembered.”

The Inter Milan forward said Argentina had “shown tremendous character” and composure throughout the match, and spoke of the significance of the comeback for Lionel Messi, who was also moved to tears after the final whistle.

“He deserves it for the person he is, for everything he gives us, because it’s his last World Cup, and because all we can do is support him and always give our very best,” Martínez added.

Julián Álvarez, who started up front on Tuesday, also paid tribute to Messi.

“We’re grateful for everything he does for us,” said the Atlético Madrid striker. “He’s a legend, the greatest player in the history of the game.”

Argentina will face the winner of Tuesday’s match between Switzerland and Colombia in the quarter-finals. 

– TIMES/AFP