Argentina are into the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals after a dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Egypt in Atlanta.
Egypt led 2-0 through Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Ziko, but Argentina produced a stunning late response through Cristian Romero, Lionel Messi and Enzo Fernández.
Egypt Shock Argentina Early
Egypt took the lead in the 15th minute when Yasser Ibrahim scored from a Marawan Attia assist.
Argentina had a major chance to respond shortly after, but Lionel Messi missed from the penalty spot in the 21st minute.
Egypt reached halftime 1-0 ahead, defending bravely while Argentina pushed for a way back.
Egypt Double the Lead
The upset looked even more likely in the 67th minute when Mostafa Ziko made it 2-0 after being set up by Haissem Hassan.
At that point, Argentina were in serious trouble.
Argentina’s Late Comeback
Cristian Romero started the comeback in the 79th minute, finishing from a Messi assist to make it 2-1.
Four minutes later, Messi made up for his missed penalty by scoring the equaliser from Gonzalo Montiel’s assist.
Then, in the 90+3rd minute, Enzo Fernández completed the turnaround, scoring from Lautaro Martínez’s pass to send Argentina through.
Match Statistics
- Possession: Argentina 58% – 42% Egypt
- Shots: Argentina 17 – 4 Egypt
- Shots on target: Argentina 7 – 2 Egypt
- Passes: Argentina 599 – 337 Egypt
- Pass accuracy: Argentina 91% – 83% Egypt
- Corners: Argentina 6 – 1 Egypt
What It Means
Argentina advance to the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals after surviving one of their toughest knockout scares.
Egypt exit with pride after coming close to a famous upset, but Argentina’s late pressure proved too much.
Argentina vs Egypt Preview: Can the Pharaohs Upset the Defending Champions in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16?
Argentina begin their knockout campaign against an inspired Egypt side as the two nations meet in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 at Atlanta Stadium.
The reigning world champions enter as overwhelming favourites after navigating the group stage, while Egypt arrive full of confidence following their dramatic penalty shootout victory over Australia. With a place in the quarter-finals at stake, the Pharaohs will be aiming to produce one of the tournament’s biggest upsets.
Road to the Round of 16
Argentina have once again looked every bit like title contenders. Lionel Scaloni’s side possess quality across every area of the pitch and remain one of the favourites to lift the trophy.
Egypt earned their place in the Round of 16 after a dramatic encounter with Australia. The Pharaohs held their nerve during a penalty shootout to progress, showcasing resilience and defensive discipline when it mattered most.
Argentina Chasing Back-to-Back World Cups
Argentina continue to rely on a blend of experience and emerging talent.
With Lionel Messi orchestrating attacks alongside players such as Julián Álvarez, Lautaro Martínez, Alexis Mac Allister, and Enzo Fernández, La Albiceleste remain one of the tournament’s most complete teams.
Their ability to dominate possession while creating chances from multiple areas makes them extremely difficult to contain.
Egypt Ready for Another Surprise
Egypt have already shown they can compete under pressure.
Led by Mohamed Salah, the Pharaohs combine defensive organisation with dangerous counter-attacks. Their victory over Australia demonstrated their resilience and ability to stay composed during high-pressure moments.
Against Argentina, Egypt are expected to defend deep before looking to exploit spaces on the break through Salah’s pace and creativity.
Key Battle
Lionel Messi vs Mohamed Salah
Two of the greatest players of their generation headline this Round of 16 clash.
Messi’s vision, movement and playmaking remain central to Argentina’s attacking play, while Salah gives Egypt a constant threat whenever they transition into attack.
If Salah receives opportunities in open space, Egypt could trouble Argentina’s defence.
Players to Watch
Argentina
- Lionel Messi
- Julián Álvarez
- Alexis Mac Allister
- Enzo Fernández
Egypt
- Mohamed Salah
- Omar Marmoush
- Emam Ashour
- Trézéguet
Match Prediction
Argentina enter the match with a clear statistical advantage.
- Argentina win: 70%
- Extra time: 20%
- Egypt win: 10%
The defending champions possess greater squad depth, experience and attacking quality. Egypt’s disciplined defensive approach could frustrate Argentina for long spells, but creating enough chances against the South Americans may prove difficult.
If Argentina score early, they are likely to control proceedings. Egypt’s best opportunity lies in keeping the match close and capitalising on counter-attacking opportunities.
Prediction: Argentina 2-0 Egypt
