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Argentina fought back from two goals down to defeat Egypt 3-2 and secure a place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic finish in Atlanta.
The defending champions appeared to be heading for a stunning exit after Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Zico gave Egypt a commanding 2-0 lead. However, three late goals completed a remarkable turnaround and kept Argentina’s title defence alive.
Messi inspires late revival
Egypt looked in control for much of the contest and moved within touching distance of a famous victory after Ibrahim opened the scoring before Zico doubled the advantage.
Argentina’s task became even more difficult after captain Lionel Messi failed to convert a first-half penalty, leaving the South Americans with a mountain to climb.
The comeback began in the 79th minute when Cristian Romero pulled a goal back to inject fresh belief into Lionel Scaloni’s side.
Messi then made amends for his earlier miss by scoring the equaliser five minutes later, bringing Argentina level and setting up a tense finish.
Fernandez seals quarter-final place
With extra time looming once again for the holders, Argentina completed the turnaround in stoppage time.
Midfielder Enzo Fernandez rose highest to head home Lautaro Martinez’s cross two minutes into added time, sparking wild celebrations among the Argentine players and supporters.
The victory marked Argentina’s second successive escape in the knockout rounds after they were also pushed to extra time by Cape Verde in the Round of 32 before eventually progressing.
Egypt, who had defended resolutely for most of the match, were left devastated after surrendering their two-goal advantage in the closing stages.
Argentina will now face either Colombia or Switzerland in the quarter-finals as they continue their pursuit of back-to-back World Cup titles.