Mustafa Ziko: We Respect Lionel Messi, But We Won't Focus on Just One Player

Mustafa Ziko, player for the Egypt national team, commented on the upcoming clash against Argentina in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, scheduled for this evening, Tuesday.

Ziko stated in remarks via the official Football Association account: "We understand the responsibility on our shoulders and aim to deliver our best performance to continue our journey in the tournament and fulfill the dreams of Egyptian fans."

He added: "We hold Lionel Messi in high regard as one of the greatest legends of football globally, but our plans do not revolve around stopping just one player; we treat the opponent as a complete system."

Ziko concluded by saying that the Pharaohs are preparing for a complex match against a fierce opponent like Argentina, but the Egyptian team's minds are solely focused on the three points; they will enter the pitch with high fighting spirit and unwavering determination, aiming for victory to please the Egyptian fans and prove that the Pharaohs are not afraid of the giants.

The match between Egypt and Argentina kicks off at 7 PM Cairo and Mecca time at the Atlanta Stadium.