Mohamed Salah names Lionel Messi as dream FIFA World Cup 'last dance' opponent
(Courtesy : Getty Images)
Messi and Salah are set for a thrilling encounter.
Hossam Abdelmaguid converted the decisive penalty as Egypt created history. They defeated a tenacious Australia 4-2 on penalties to go to the 2026 FIFA World Cup last 16.
They are now set for a huge clash in the World Cup competition in the round of 16.
Following an extra-time victory over Cabo Verde, Argentina will face Egypt in the Round of 16. Argentina overcame the underdog Cabo Verde 3-2.
Now, both sides are set to face each other in the Round of 16. Moreover, Mohamed Salah, who hoped to have his last dance with one of the greatest of all time, has seen that become a reality.
Mohamed Salah has picked Lionel Messi as his preferred opponent for the “last dance” of his international career. When asked by the media at the FIFA World Cup 2026, following Egypt’s stunning shootout victory over Australia to reach the Round of 16, if he could face any football star, Salah simply replied: “Lionel Messi”.
Salah’s desire became a reality. Egypt proceeded to the Round of 16, setting up a match against Argentina, providing him the ultimate opportunity to pit himself against his hero.
Mohamed Salah hopes to face Lionel Messi in the last dance of his international career
The reporter asked the player following Egypt’s triumph against Australia on penalties. Who do you dream of for your last dance in the competition?
“Who do you dream of for your last.”
Mo Salah: “Messi.”
Egypt created history. They reached the round of 16 and will be hoping to achieve a historic run to the quarterfinals. However, they will face behemoths Argentina, who laboured to get past motivated Cape Verde.
Both will face each other for the first time in national team colours. They will be ready to deliver at the biggest platform.
When is Egypt playing Argentina?
7th July, 9:30 pm IST.
Where will the game be played?
Pista Mercedes-Benz in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.