The 2026 FIFA World Cup served up one of the most dramatic nights in tournament history on Tuesday as Argentina pulled off a stunning 3-2 comeback against Egypt in Atlanta, while Belgium eliminated co-hosts USA 4-1 in Seattle.
Argentina 3-2 Egypt: A Comeback for the Ages
Reigning world champions Argentina were staring elimination in the face when Egypt stormed to a 2-0 lead through Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Zico. The Pharaohs — who had never won a World Cup match before this tournament — were minutes away from dumping Messi and Co. out of the competition.
Lionel Messi had a first-half penalty saved by Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir — the second spot-kick he has missed in this tournament alone, making him the first player in World Cup history to miss two penalties in a single edition (excluding shootouts).
But the 39-year-old talisman refused to be denied. Cristian Romero headed Argentina back into the game in the 79th minute, and Messi slammed home the equalizer five minutes later — his 21st World Cup goal. Then, deep into injury time, Enzo Fernandez headed home Lautaro Martinez’s cross to complete one of the greatest comebacks in World Cup history. Fernandez’s goal was also the 3,000th in World Cup history.
Messi is now the first player ever to score in six consecutive knockout-stage matches, and his eight goals are the most in the opening five games of a single edition since Gerd Muller in 1970.
The match was not without controversy. Egypt were furious when referee Francois Letexier waved away a penalty appeal for a foul on Mohamed Salah by Julian Alvarez — with Fernandez scoring the winner moments later at the other end.
USA 1-4 Belgium: Co-Hosts Exit
Earlier in the day, Belgium ended American dreams with a comprehensive 4-1 victory in Seattle. Romelu Lukaku was the star of the show as the Red Devils booked their quarter-final spot.
The USA — the last co-host standing after Mexico lost to England and Canada fell to Morocco — struggled to create meaningful chances. Folarin Balogun, whose one-match ban was controversially suspended by FIFA after pressure from President Trump, couldn’t replicate his earlier heroics. His only big chance was smartly saved by Thibaut Courtois.
USA have now fallen at the last-16 stage in four of the past five World Cups, extending a painful pattern for American soccer.
What’s Next?
Argentina will face the winner of Switzerland vs. Colombia in the quarter-finals on July 12 in Kansas City. Belgium advances to face their quarter-final opponent later this week.
The World Cup continues with knockout matches on July 9, 10, and 11, building toward the final on July 18.
FAQ
Has Messi ever missed two penalties in a single World Cup before?
No — Messi is the first player in World Cup history to miss two penalties (excluding shootouts) in a single tournament, having also missed against Austria in the group stage.
When is the 2026 World Cup final?
The final will take place on Saturday, July 18, 2026. The tournament is being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Upcoming Key Fixtures
- July 9 — World Cup Round of 16
- July 10 — World Cup Round of 16
- July 11 — World Cup Round of 16
- July 12 — Quarter-final: Argentina vs (Switzerland/Colombia) — Kansas City
- July 15 — Semi-finals
- July 18 — 2026 World Cup Final