Lisandro Martinez: United ace continues golden World Cup run | OneFootball

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez continued his golden run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup by helping his nation secure a dramatic 3-2 win over Egypt in the Round of 16. The Argentine retained his place in Lionel Scaloni’s starting XI following a masterclass against Cabo Verde in the Round of 32.

Martinez set up Lionel Messi to score the opening goal of the game, and then found the back of the net in the first half of extra time in the 3-2 win over the Blue Sharks. The Butcher has been outstanding at the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far, carrying his impressive form with United to the summer’s spectacle.

Martinez starred in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria in the first group stage game, and also stood out in the 2-0 win over Austria in the group stages. While the United man maintained his position at the heart of the backline alongside Cristian Romero, Scaloni made three changes to the starting XI for Tuesday’s game.

Nicolas Tagliafico replaced Facundo Medina at left-back, while Leandro Paredes and Julian Alvarez were drafted in for Thiago Almada and Lautaro Martinez. Scaloni was determined to avoid an upset following the untimely exits of Portugal and Brazil from the Round of 16.

Argentina had to dig deep to secure win

Argentina arrived at the game as the overwhelming favourites but were stunned when Egypt took the lead through Yasser Ibrahim in the 15th minute. The reigning world champions rallied but failed to break Hossam Hassan’s resolute side.

Egypt dealt with everything that La Albiceleste threw at them and appeared to have doubled their lead in the 60th minute through Mostafa Ziko. However, the goal was ruled out due to a foul on Lisandro Martinez in the build-up.

Ziko, though, put the ball in the back of the net in the 67th minute, sending Egypt to the brink of securing a place in the quarter final. However, Argentina rallied through Messi, who set up Romero in the 79th minute and scored himself four minutes later.

Enzo Fernandes then secured the winner in the third minute of second-half injury time to help La Albiceleste register a memorable comeback victory.

United man continues golden world cup run

Martinez had another assured outing with his national team, adding to his impressive run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Butcher had 76 touches of the ball and completed 51 of his 54 attempted passes for a 94% passing accuracy.

The Argentine registered three long balls, two of which found their targets. However, both of his crosses failed to reach a team-mate. The 28 year old managed seven clearances and two interceptions, and also won two tackles.

Martinez won seven of his nine ground duels and one of his two aerial duels. He had one shot, which was off target, and also registered one successful dribble.

Imported from Manual Input

Source: Sofascore.

Final Thoughts

United need leaders in the dressing room following Casemiro’s departure, so Martinez’s experience at the World Cup could prove invaluable to the club next season. Fans, though, will hope that the Argentine can return to Old Trafford free from injury in preparation for a vital campaign.

Featured image by Michael Steele/Getty Images

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