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The 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 reaches its climax today (July 7) with two blockbuster fixtures that will determine the final quarterfinal matchups. All eyes are on Atlanta, where defending champions Argentina face Egypt in a mouthwatering clash between two of football’s biggest icons — Lionel Messi and Mohamed Salah.
Argentina vs Egypt: Messi’s Last Dance vs Salah’s Historic Moment
Argentina enters as the heavy favorite. The reigning World Cup champions have won all four matches so far, with Lionel Messi (39) co-leading the tournament’s scoring charts with 7 goals alongside Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland. Under Lionel Scaloni, La Albiceleste look composed, fluid, and hungry to defend their crown.
But Egypt is no pushover. Mohamed Salah has finally led his nation to the knockout rounds for the first time in his career, and they arrive in Atlanta full of belief after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Australia in the Round of 32 — sealed by Salah’s ice-cool Panenka.
Egypt’s progress has been defined by resilience and defensive organization. Hossam Hassan’s side has conceded just twice in four matches, and with Salah capable of producing magic from nothing, an upset is far from impossible.
Team News & Lineups
Argentina XI: E. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Tagliafico; De Paul, Mac Allister, Paredes, Fernandez; Messi, Alvarez
Julian Alvarez starts alongside Messi after Lautaro Martinez dropped to the bench. Three changes from the Round of 32 win over Cape Verde.
Egypt XI: Shoubir; Hany, Ibrahim, Rabia, Hafez; Ashour, Attia, Lasheen; Haissem Hassan, Salah, Zico
Omar Marmoush — Manchester City’s exciting forward — is surprisingly benched, with Haissem Hassan preferred. Mohanad Lasheen returns from suspension.
Already Confirmed Quarterfinal Matchups
With six of eight Round of 16 matches decided, three quarterfinal ties are already set:
- Spain vs. Belgium — July 10, Philadelphia
- England vs. Norway — July 10, Los Angeles
- Germany vs. France — July 11, Houston
The winners of Argentina vs Egypt and Switzerland vs Colombia (playing later tonight) will complete the quarterfinal lineup, facing each other on July 11 in Miami.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this Lionel Messi’s last World Cup?
Yes. Messi has confirmed that the 2026 tournament will be his last. At 39 years old, he is playing with the urgency of a man who wants one more triumph before retiring from international football.
What time is Argentina vs Egypt and where can I watch?
Kick-off is at 17:00 BST / 12:00 PM ET / 9:00 AM PT. In the UK, the match is available on BBC Radio 5 Live. US viewers can catch it on Fox Sports.
Who is the favorite to win the 2026 World Cup?
Argentina and France remain the betting favorites, but England, Spain, and Germany have all looked strong. The expanded 48-team format has made for some unpredictable results — Norway’s 2-1 upset of Brazil being the biggest shock so far.
Upcoming World Cup 2026 Schedule (Knockout Stage)
| Date | Match | Stage | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 7 | Argentina vs Egypt | Round of 16 | Atlanta |
| July 7 | Switzerland vs Colombia | Round of 16 | Dallas |
| July 10 | Spain vs Belgium | Quarterfinal | Philadelphia |
| July 10 | England vs Norway | Quarterfinal | Los Angeles |
| July 11 | Germany vs France | Quarterfinal | Houston |
| July 11 | TBD vs TBD | Quarterfinal | Miami |
| July 14-15 | Semifinals | Semifinal | Atlanta / Kansas City |
| July 18 | Third Place Playoff | 3rd Place | Miami |
| July 19 | FINAL | Final | MetLife Stadium (NJ) |
All times local. Stay tuned to PC Master Deals for full World Cup 2026 coverage.