Defending champions Argentina produced a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat Egypt 3-2 and secure a place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after an enthralling Round of 16 clash in Atlanta.
The three-time world champions appeared to be heading for a shock exit after Egypt raced into a 2-0 lead through first-half striker Yasser Ibrahim and a second-half goal from Mostafa Zico.
Argentina, however, mounted a dramatic late fightback. Cristian Romero pulled one back in the 79th minute before captain Lionel Messi leveled the score five minutes later, despite having missed a first-half penalty.
The decisive moment came in second-half stoppage time when Enzo Fernandez headed home Lautaro Martinez’s cross to complete an extraordinary comeback and seal a 3-2 victory.
With the win, Argentina advanced to the World Cup quarter-finals, where they will face either Colombia or Switzerland.
Egypt, playing in their first-ever World Cup knockout match victory bid, made a dream start when Yasser Ibrahim headed in Marwan Attia’s cross in the 15th minute. The Pharaohs continued to frustrate Argentina, with goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir delivering an outstanding performance, including a crucial save to deny Messi from the penalty spot and several other important stops during the first half.
Mostafa Zico appeared to extend Egypt’s advantage after the break, although one of his earlier efforts was ruled out by VAR. His eventual goal put Egypt on the brink of a historic upset before Argentina’s late resurgence changed the course of the match.
Messi’s equalizer marked his 21st FIFA World Cup goal, while Argentina’s dramatic recovery will be remembered as one of the greatest comebacks in World Cup knockout-stage history.
Despite the heartbreaking defeat, Egypt earned widespread praise for pushing the reigning champions to the limit and coming within minutes of one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history.
