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Atlanta, GA — July 7, 2026 — Lionel Messi added yet another unforgettable chapter to his legendary career as Argentina pulled off a stunning second-half comeback to defeat Egypt 3-2 in the Round of 16, advancing to the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Comeback for the Ages
Trailing 2-0 with just over 12 minutes remaining in regulation, the reigning world champions looked destined for an early exit. Egypt, searching for their first-ever quarter-final appearance, had been the better side for much of the match. Yasser Ibrahim headed Egypt ahead in the 15th minute, and Mostafa Zico doubled the lead after halftime. Goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir was in inspired form, even saving a first-half penalty from Messi — the fourth World Cup penalty the Argentine has missed in his career.
But then the magic happened. In a breathtaking 14-minute spell, Argentina turned the game completely on its head.
- 79′ — Cristian Romero heads home from a Messi cross to make it 2-1
- 83′ — Messi rifles a left-footed shot off the crossbar and in to level the score
- 90+2′ — Enzo Fernandez scores the winner with a header in stoppage time
Controversy in Atlanta
The match was not without controversy. Egypt had a second goal from Zico disallowed by VAR after a soft foul call on Marwan Attia at the start of the build-up. Egypt also claimed a penalty was not given when Mohamed Salah went down in the box moments before Argentina’s winner. Egyptian manager Hossam Hassan was furious after the match, suggesting officials favored keeping the world champions in the tournament.
Despite the controversy, there was no denying the drama of Messi’s heroics. The 39-year-old became the first player in World Cup history to score in six consecutive knockout-stage games and has now netted eight goals in this tournament — the most by any player in the first five games since Gerd Müller in 1970.
Switzerland Edges Colombia on Penalties
In the other Round of 16 match on Tuesday, Switzerland knocked out Colombia 4-3 on penalties after a goalless 120 minutes. Ruben Vargas converted the decisive spot-kick after Colombia’s Yaser Asprilla saw his effort saved by Yann Sommer. Switzerland advance to face Argentina in the quarter-finals on Sunday, July 12.
Quarter-Final Matchups
| Date | Match | Venue | Time (ET) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thu, Jul 9 | France vs. Morocco | Boston | 4:00 PM |
| Fri, Jul 10 | Spain vs. Belgium | TBD | 3:00 PM |
| Sat, Jul 11 | Norway vs. England | TBD | 6:00 PM |
| Sun, Jul 12 | Argentina vs. Switzerland | TBD | 2:00 AM (ET) |
Looking Ahead
With Messi in this form, Argentina remain the team to beat. However, the Swiss defense is notoriously stubborn — they have kept three clean sheets in their last four matches. France vs. Morocco is a rematch of the 2022 semi-final, while England faces a dangerous Norway side led by Erling Haaland, who single-handedly knocked out Brazil in the Round of 16.
FAQ
Where can I watch World Cup 2026 matches?
Matches are broadcast on Fox Sports in the US and streamed on FuboTV, Sling TV, and YouTube TV.
Who is leading the Golden Boot race?
Lionel Messi leads with 8 goals, followed by Kylian Mbappé (6) and Erling Haaland (5).
When is the World Cup final?
The final will be played on July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
