Argentina opened the 2026 World Cup with a 3-0 win over Algeria, but the most talked-about moment came after Lionel Messi scored the first goal. The Argentina captain was seen crying on camera, prompting widespread speculation about the unusual reaction.
Messi later gave a brief explanation, saying, "It is not related to football. I have had a few difficult and complicated days," while thanking his teammates and members of the delegation for their support in recent days.
That only fueled the mystery. Argentine journalist Eduardo Feinmann said on Radio Mitre that Messi's father, Jorge Messi, is dealing with a serious health problem. He said the condition has lasted for several months and worsened somewhat in the past week. According to Feinmann, this was the reason for Messi's emotional response after the goal against Algeria.
Feinmann said the tears likely reflected both relief after Argentina's strong start to the tournament and the strain of a difficult period for the family. Messi's circle and the Argentina national team have not commented on the reports, and the details about Jorge Messi's condition remain unclear. Still, the episode underscored how central family remains to the captain's life, even at major career moments.
