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Defending champions Argentina produced one of the most dramatic comebacks of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scoring three goals in the closing stages to overturn a two-goal deficit and defeat Egypt 3-2 in their Round of 16 clash on Tuesday.
Lionel Scaloni’s side looked destined for elimination after Egypt raced into a 2-0 lead, but a remarkable late resurgence inspired by captain Lionel Messi secured Argentina’s place in the quarter-finals.
Egypt stunned the South American giants in the 15th minute when defender Yasser Ibrahim rose highest to head home from a Marwan Attia delivery, giving the Pharaohs an early advantage at Atlanta Stadium.
The African side frustrated Argentina for much of the contest and doubled their lead in the 67th minute through Mostafa Zico, who finished a swift counter-attack after earlier seeing a goal ruled out.
With just over 10 minutes remaining, Argentina began an extraordinary fightback.
Cristian Romero ignited the comeback in the 79th minute, heading home from a Messi assist to reduce the deficit and inject belief into the reigning world champions.
Four minutes later, Messi redeemed himself after an earlier missed penalty by calmly finishing Gonzalo Montiel’s cross to draw Argentina level and send the packed Atlanta crowd into celebration.
Just as extra time appeared inevitable, Enzo Fernandez completed the stunning turnaround in the second minute of stoppage time. The Chelsea midfielder met Lautaro Martinez’s cross with a composed header to seal a memorable 3-2 victory.
The dramatic finish sparked emotional celebrations among Argentina’s players, with Messi visibly moved after helping his side escape an early World Cup exit.
The victory extends Argentina’s quest to defend the title they won four years ago and sends them into the quarter-finals, where they will face the winners of the Round of 16 encounter between Switzerland and Colombia.
For Egypt, the defeat was a heartbreaking end to an impressive campaign. Hossam Hassan’s side appeared in complete control for much of the match but were unable to withstand Argentina’s relentless late pressure.
Messi’s equaliser also saw the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner move to the top of the tournament’s scoring chart with eight goals and further strengthen his remarkable World Cup scoring record.
