Argentina produced a sensational late comeback to defeat Egypt 3-2 and secure a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter finals. The defending champions looked set for a shock exit after trailing by two goals, but three strikes in the final 12 minutes turned the match around in dramatic fashion at Atlanta Stadium.
Egypt made a confident start and stunned Argentina in the 15th minute when Yasser Ibrahim powered home a header to give his side the lead. Argentina had an immediate chance to equalise after winning a penalty just minutes later, but Lionel Messi saw his spot kick brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Mostafa Shoubir. The miss was followed by another close effort as Messi struck the post with a free kick before halftime.
The African side doubled their advantage in the 67th minute through Mostafa Zico, who finished a well worked counterattack after a precise pass from Haissem Hassan. At 2-0 down, Argentina faced the possibility of an early exit, but the world champions responded with incredible determination.
The comeback began in the 79th minute when Cristian Romero headed home from a cross delivered by Messi. Just four minutes later, Messi brought Argentina level with a powerful finish after a frantic sequence inside the penalty area. The goal was his 21st career World Cup goal, extending his all time tournament record and taking his tally to eight goals in the competition, placing him at the top of the Golden Boot race.
With stoppage time approaching, Lautaro Martinez delivered a pinpoint cross into the box where Enzo Fernandez rose highest to head home the winning goal in the 93rd minute. The dramatic finish completed one of the greatest comeback victories of the tournament and extended Argentina’s unbeaten World Cup run to 11 matches.
The victory also marked Argentina’s first successful comeback from a two goal deficit in a World Cup knockout match since 2006. Lionel Scaloni’s side will now face Switzerland in the quarter finals as they continue their quest to successfully defend the World Cup title.
