Reigning world champions Argentina produced a remarkable comeback from two goals down to avoid a shock FIFA 2026 World Cup Round of 16 exit against Egypt on Tuesday, with Lionel Messi inspiring a dramatic 3-2 victory to send La Albiceleste into the quarter-finals.
The holders appeared on the brink of elimination after first-half goals from Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Ziko, either side of Messi having a penalty saved, put the Pharaohs on course for a famous upset in Atlanta.
However, Argentina mounted a sensational late fightback, scoring three goals in the final 11 minutes and stoppage time.
Cristian Romero ignited the comeback with a towering header before Messi rifled home the equaliser, extending his scoring streak to nine consecutive World Cup matches and reclaiming the lead in the Golden Boot race with eight goals at the tournament.
Enzo Fernández then completed the stunning turnaround with a superb header two minutes into stoppage time, breaking Egyptian hearts and sending Argentina into the last eight.
At the final whistle, an emotional Messi was seen shedding tears of joy as he embraced his teammates after one of Argentina’s most dramatic World Cup victories.
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni praised his players’ resilience.
“I’m really emotional right now. What a group of players, man,” Scaloni said.
Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Shoubir, who delivered an outstanding performance despite the defeat, struggled to hide his disappointment.
“We were so close to victory. Small details make the difference in the big games. We’re sad because we had the match in our hands,” Shoubir said.
Argentina will now face either Colombia or Switzerland in the quarter-finals on Saturday as they continue their defence of the World Cup title.
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