Argentina secured a dramatic place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after staging a remarkable comeback to defeat Egypt 3-2 in a thrilling Round of 16 encounter. The victory ensured the South American giants advanced to the last eight, joining six other nations that had already booked their places in the quarter-finals.
Egypt made a dream start to the contest, taking an early lead through Yasser Ibrahim before extending their advantage in the second half with a goal from Mostafa Zico. The African side looked on course for a famous victory as they frustrated the defending champions for much of the match.
Argentina responded with determination in the closing stages. Cristian Romero reduced the deficit with a powerful header before Lionel Messi equalised after earlier missing a penalty. With momentum firmly on their side, Argentina completed the turnaround in stoppage time when Enzo Fernández headed home the winning goal, sealing an unforgettable comeback.
Messi played a decisive role in the victory, contributing a goal and an assist as Argentina overturned a two-goal deficit to keep their hopes of retaining the World Cup alive. The result ended Egypt’s impressive tournament run despite a spirited performance that pushed the reigning champions to their limits.
With the victory, Argentina became the seventh team to qualify for the quarter-finals and will face the winner of the remaining Round of 16 fixture between Switzerland and Colombia. Other nations already through to the last eight include Morocco, France, Norway, England, Spain and Belgium as the race for the 2026 World Cup title continues.