Lionel Messi once again proved decisive on the biggest stage, scoring and providing an assist as Argentina produced a stunning late comeback to defeat Egypt 3-2 and book their place in the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The victory at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta extended Messi’s remarkable record, with the Argentina captain finding the net in a sixth consecutive World Cup knockout match, an unprecedented feat in the competition’s history.
Egypt appeared to be cruising into the last eight after opening a commanding 2-0 lead, frustrating the defending champions for much of the contest and leaving Argentina on the brink of a shock elimination.
However, Lionel Scaloni’s side mounted a sensational fightback in the closing minutes.
Cristian Romero ignited the comeback in the 79th minute after being set up by Messi, reducing the deficit and giving Argentina renewed belief.
Four minutes later, Messi took matters into his own hands, finishing clinically to draw Argentina level at 2-2 and send the Atlanta crowd into celebration.
With extra time seemingly inevitable, Argentina completed the turnaround in dramatic fashion.
Deep into stoppage time, Enzo Fernández rose highest to head home the winning goal in the second minute of added time, sealing a memorable 3-2 victory for the reigning world champions.
The dramatic win keeps Argentina’s dream of retaining the World Cup alive. They are aiming to become the first nation since Brazil, who won consecutive titles in 1958 and 1962, to successfully defend the trophy.
Argentina will now face either Colombia or Switzerland in the quarterfinals, with the last-eight clash scheduled to take place in Kansas City on Saturday.
