Lisandro Martinez: Argentine media hail ‘phenomenal’ Man United star

Lisandro Martinez played a major role in Argentina’s colossal 3-2 comeback against Egypt on Tuesday.

The Manchester United defender started and played the full 90 minutes against the North African side as they produced one of the World Cup’s greatest-ever comebacks to reach the quarter-finals.

The 28-year-old was one of the best players on the pitch for the World Cup champions, despite Egypt’s two goals.

As a result, the Argentine media has been quick to hail the Man United star’s performance, labelling it as “phenomenal”.

Martinez has been key for the South American side throughout the World Cup to date, and netted past Cape Verde in the round of 32.

Lisandro Martinez given eight rating for performance vs Egypt

Martinez has played in four of Argentina’s five matches so far in the 2026 World Cup, and has rarely put a foot wrong.

The centre-back continued his fine form against the Egyptians, with his defensive work ensuring that a comeback was still possible.

Alongside Tottenham Hotspur’s Cristian Romero, Martinez was seen as one of the best players on the pitch, and proved to be a brick wall at the back.

As a result, upon reviewing his performance, La Pagina Millonaria gave the Man United star an eight rating, before writing: “ A phenomenal performance, on par with Romero. 

“He made numerous anticipations, displayed excellent ball control, and apart from a brief period of uncertainty in the second half, he was up to the task in every defensive intervention.”

How good was Martinez vs Egypt?

According to Fotmob on 7 July, Martinez was just as good as the media have made him out to be.

Overall, he completed the most defensive contributions at 13, which includes four tackles, seven clearances and two interceptions.

On top of this, he made one recovery, completed all of his attempted dribbles, completed 94 per cent of his attempted passes and even had a shot on goal.

It was one of his best performances at the World Cup to date, and no doubt played a massive role in Argentina progressing into the quarter-finals.

Now, the South American nation are set to play either Switzerland or Colombia for a place in the semi-finals of the World Cup, with the match set to take place on Sunday at 2am UK time.

Martinez will be hoping to continue this form into the match as the country eyes back-to-back World Cup titles after their 2022 victory.