In an absolute thriller of a Round of 16 matchup, the reigning World Cup champions survived a massive scare to advance. Argentina clawed its way back to a 3-2 victory over an inspired Egypt side that held a stunning lead for the first 80 minutes, before La Albiceleste launched a late, dramatic comeback to steal the win.
The heartbreaking defeat brings a bitter end to Egypt’s impressive 2026 World Cup run in the Round of 16. Meanwhile, a battle-tested Argentina punches its ticket to the quarterfinals, where they await the winner of the upcoming high-stakes clash between Switzerland and Colombia.
This high-octane fixture will live long in the memory of both fanbases, highlighted by a shocking first-half moment where Lionel Messi uncharacteristically missed a penalty kick that would have equalized the match. While Argentina celebrates survival, questions now linger about just how much energy the giants expended as they look ahead to the grueling road remaining in the tournament.
Now, Egypt will pack its bags for the journey home, turning its attention to the future after a much-needed period of rest. Despite the heartbreaking exit, the Pharaohs can hold their heads high after a monumental campaign that secured their highest-ever finish in World Cup history.
Thank you for 23 days of the best moments we could have shared together 🤩🇪🇬#egyptnt#FIFAWORLDCUP pic.twitter.com/OfwAk56rW9
— Egypt National Team (@EgyptNT_EN) July 7, 2026
Messi, Argentina complete dramatic comeback
The defending champions looked dead in the water down 2-0 until Cristian Romero breathed life into the squad with a crucial first goal. Minutes later, Messi pounced on a loose rebound inside the box, burying it to equalize and set up a thrilling finish just before second-half stoppage time.
The epic comeback was completed when Enzo Fernandez hammered home the match-winner, shattering Egypt’s dreams after they had bravely fought to a two-goal advantage. In the end, Argentina leaned heavily on its championship DNA to weather the storm and pull off the great escape.
With their tournament survival secured, Argentina moves on to the quarterfinals, with date and city confirmed. They now await the winner of the high-stakes Round of 16 battle between Switzerland and Colombia, scheduled to kick off later today.
