During a collision in the second half of the match, Messi's right eye was hit. Shortly after, during a break in play (hydration break), Argentina's medical team quickly came onto the field and gave him initial treatment with ice on his eye. Later, relieving news emerged that the injury was not serious and he finished the match.

Despite the injury, the Argentine superstar put on a great performance. By assisting Alexis Mac Allister's goal, Messi wrote his name alongside legend Pelé in the record for the most assists in World Cup history.

Meanwhile, Messi also got into a verbal altercation with Portuguese referee João Pinheiro at one point during the match. Expressing dissatisfaction with the referee's tone, he said, "Speak properly, do not disrespect. Speak to me properly, I have also spoken to you properly."

However, the situation quickly returned to normal, and the Argentina captain did not face any punishment.

In the end, Argentina secured their place in the semi-finals with a 3-1 victory, where they will face England.