Alvarez: I'm not easily emotional, but this team's achievements thrill me

Argentina came back from 3-2 down to beat Egypt in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 and advance to the quarterfinals. After the match, Alvarez was interviewed by Radio La Red.

This was a very important victory, Julian. How do you feel now?

I’m happy—very happy indeed.

With 11 minutes left in the game, Argentina were still 2-0 down. Were you aware of that at the time?

Yes, today’s game was truly shocking, with huge emotional swings. During the hydration break, we stopped with the score at 0-2, and there wasn’t much time left. But we encouraged each other to fight until the end and give everything, just as we always do. We believed we could create chances because we score in every game and have scored many goals. Fortunately, the goals came at a crucial moment.

The winning goal was scored by your friend, Enzo Fernández.

It was a fantastic goal. Everyone was running at full speed, I saw him rush into the box, and Lautaro delivered a beautiful cross, so it was a fantastic goal. Considering everything the Argentine national team has been through over the years, achieving such a comeback in the FIFA World Cup made this match, I think, one of the best. To be honest, it was truly shocking.

I'm not usually an emotional person, but in today's game, when I was substituted in the final few minutes, I felt it very strongly. I was very excited because what this team has accomplished is truly incredible. Now I'm already thinking about the quarterfinals. There are still very important matches ahead, and we need to keep moving toward that goal.

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