Argentina Stages Late Comeback to Beat Egypt 3-2 and Reach World Cup Quarterfinals
Argentina overcame a 2-0 deficit to defeat Egypt 3-2 in a dramatic 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match, with Lionel Messi scoring and assisting after missing a penalty. The defending champions advance to the quarterfinals.
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Argentina advanced to the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals after a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt in Atlanta, overcoming a two-goal deficit in the match's closing stages, according to ESPN reports cited by Complete Sports.
Egypt appeared poised for a historic upset as Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Ziko scored either side of a missed penalty by Lionel Messi, putting the Pharaohs in command, Channels Television reported. Messi had a penalty saved, marking an unwanted World Cup record, Legit.ng confirmed.
Argentina rallied late, with Messi providing an assist for Cristian Romero in the 79th minute, sparking a turnaround. Messi then scored in his sixth consecutive World Cup knockout match, becoming the first player to achieve the feat, Complete Sports reported. The victory secured the defending champions a place in the last eight.
"Argentina came from two goals down to beat African giants Egypt 3-2 and reach the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals," The South African reported, highlighting Messi's role in inspiring the fightback.
Manchester United legend Roy Keane described the match as "an absolutely amazing thriller," praising Argentina's resilience, Complete Sports said. The team will face their quarterfinal opponent following the conclusion of other Round of 16 fixtures.