Argentina produced one of the most dramatic comebacks of the FIFA World Cup 2026, recovering from two goals down to defeat Egypt 3-2 and book a place in the quarter-finals.
Egypt looked set for a famous victory after Yasser Ibrahim headed them into an early lead before Mostafa Ziko doubled the advantage in the second half. Goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir also played a key role, saving Lionel Messi's first-half penalty and making several important stops to frustrate the defending champions.
Argentina's comeback began in the closing stages when Lionel Messi delivered a cross that Cristian Romero headed home to reduce the deficit. Messi then levelled the match with a powerful finish in the 84th minute, before Enzo Fernández completed the turnaround with a stoppage-time winner after another attacking move involving the Argentina captain.
The victory keeps Argentina's title defence alive and sends Lionel Scaloni's side into the quarter-finals, where they will face the winner of Switzerland and Colombia.
The match was also marked by controversy over two VAR decisions. Egypt had an earlier goal ruled out after a foul was identified in the build-up, while the visitors believed Argentina's winning goal should have been reviewed for a possible foul moments earlier. The decisions sparked angry protests from Egypt's players and coaching staff after the final whistle.
Despite the defeat, Egypt earned praise for a disciplined and courageous display led by Mohamed Salah and Shobeir. However, Argentina's late resilience and Messi's decisive influence proved the difference in one of the tournament's most memorable matches.