In one of the most thrilling matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Argentina mounted an unforgettable comeback to defeat Egypt 3-2 in the Round of 16, with Lionel Messi once again proving why he is regarded as one of the greatest to ever play the game.
The Dramatic Comeback
Egypt stunned the reigning world champions by racing into a 2-0 lead. Yasser Ibrahim headed Egypt ahead in the 15th minute from a corner, and Mostafa Ziko doubled the lead early in the second half after a brilliant setup from Mohamed Salah. Argentina looked shell-shocked, and with 20 minutes remaining, their dream of a bicampeonato (back-to-back titles) appeared to be slipping away.
To make matters worse, Messi had a penalty saved by Egypt’s heroic goalkeeper Mostafa Shobair in the first half — the first time in World Cup history that a player has missed two penalties in the same tournament. Shobair, whose father Ahmed was Egypt’s goalkeeper at the 1990 World Cup, produced a string of incredible saves to keep Argentina at bay.
Messi Magic in the Final Stretch
But the golden rule of football is never to write off Lionel Messi. With 11 minutes remaining, the 39-year-old turned the game on its head. First, he delivered a pinpoint cross for Cristian Romero to head home and reduce the deficit. Then, just four minutes later, the ball fell to Messi inside the box, and despite Shobair getting both hands to his shot, Messi’s power and precision couldn’t be denied — 2-2.
The stadium erupted. Messi, visibly emotional at the final whistle, extended his World Cup goal record to 21 goals — a mark that may never be broken.
Enzo Fernández Seals the Win in Stoppage Time
With the clock ticking into stoppage time, Mohamed Salah lost possession in midfield, and Argentina pounced. Lautaro MartĂnez delivered a looping cross into the box, and Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández rose highest to head the ball into the net — sending Argentina into the quarter-finals in the most dramatic fashion possible.
Egypt were furious, believing there had been a foul in the buildup, but the goal stood. The Pharaohs’ historic World Cup journey — their first ever knockout stage win had come against Australia — ended in heartbreak.
What’s Next for Argentina?
Argentina will face the winner of Tuesday night’s Switzerland vs Colombia match in the quarter-finals on Sunday, July 12. With Messi in this form, and the squad’s belief soaring after this miraculous escape, La Albiceleste will be a dangerous opponent for anyone.
World Cup 2026 — Quarter-Final Schedule
- England vs Mexico — Thu, July 9
- Belgium vs Spain — Fri, July 10
- France vs Morocco — Sat, July 11
- Argentina vs Switzerland/Colombia — Sun, July 12
FAQ
How many goals has Messi scored at the World Cup?
Messi now has 21 World Cup goals, extending his record as the tournament’s all-time leading scorer. He surpassed Miroslav Klose’s record of 16 goals earlier in the tournament.
When is Argentina’s next match?
Argentina will play in the quarter-finals on Sunday, July 12, 2026, against either Switzerland or Colombia. The venue will be confirmed following the Switzerland vs Colombia match.
Has Messi announced his retirement from international football?
No official announcement has been made. The 39-year-old has not indicated this will be his final World Cup, but speculation continues given his age. Messi has previously stated he wants to “enjoy every moment” with Argentina.