Messi becomes first player to miss two penalties in a single World Cup

Argentina are facing Egypt in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. In the 21st minute, referee pointed to the spot after a foul by Hossam Hassan on Nicolas Tagliafico. Lionel Messi stepped up to take the penalty, but sent his shot over the crossbar. This was the second penalty Messi has failed to convert in this tournament. He also missed from the spot during the group stage, making him the first player in World Cup history to miss two penalties in a single edition of the competition. For Argentina, the miss could prove costly as they chase a place in the quarterfinals.