A heartwarming moment as Cape Verde players forget the match result and line up to take photos with "Lionel Messi" after the 2026 World Cup game.
On 4 July 2026, a viral image brought smiles to football fans worldwide when legendary star Lionel Messi was surrounded after a match. But this time, it was not fans or media—it was the "Cape Verde national team players" who shed their competitor roles on the field and turned into devoted fans, lining up to take photos with their hero.
"For many of us, Messi is an idol and an inspiration in football. Playing against him on the field is already a great honor, but having a photo with him is something we will tell our children about forever," said one of the Cape Verde national team members about the moment.
Messi himself maintained his charm and friendliness by willingly standing and posing with every player, showing no sign of fatigue or rushing off to the locker room.
The 2026 World Cup round of 16 match between Argentina and Egypt will be broadcast live on Thairath TV Channel 32 and the Monomax application on Tuesday, 7 July, at 23:00 GMT+7.