In a thrilling match at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Argentina emerged triumphant over Egypt with a 3-2 victory in the World Cup 2026 round of 16. This encounter stands out as one of the most intense matches of the tournament so far.
The reigning world champion faced an uphill battle, trailing by two goals before staging a remarkable comeback with three goals in the second half. This victory secures their spot in the quarterfinals, where they will face the winner of the Colombia vs. Switzerland match on Saturday, July 11, in Kansas City.
The game began with Yasser Ibrahim scoring in the 15th minute, heading in a corner kick past Lisandro Martínez and Cuti Romero to catch goalkeeper Dibu Martínez off guard. The Argentine team attempted a swift recovery, but a penalty kick by Lionel Messi in the 21st minute was saved by Egyptian goalkeeper Mohamed Sobeir.
Controversy struck early in the second half when the VAR disallowed a goal by Mostafa Ziko in the 58th minute for a previous foul. Nevertheless, Ziko legally scored in the 67th minute, putting Egypt ahead 2-0 and pushing Argentina to the brink of elimination.
In response, the Argentine coach made a tactical shift with simultaneous substitutions in the 66th minute, bringing on Nico González and Lautaro Martínez for Tagliafico and De Paul. This move intensified Argentina's offensive pressure.
Cristian "Cuti" Romero initiated the comeback with a crucial goal in the 79th minute, sparking hope for the team. Just four minutes later, Messi redeemed his earlier miss by scoring the decisive 3-2 goal in the 83rd minute, sending Argentine fans into a frenzy.
Argentina's dominance was evident in their statistics: they maintained 65% possession compared to Egypt's 35%, fired 18 shots to Egypt's four, and earned six corners to Egypt's one. Despite their limited chances, the Egyptian team effectively challenged the reigning champions.
With this victory, Argentina advances to the quarterfinals, while Egypt exits the tournament. The Argentine squad reached this stage after a 3-2 extra-time win against Cape Verde in the round of 32 on July 3 in Miami, having finished the group stage with a perfect record of nine points.
At 38, Messi adds another goal to his tally in what is likely his final World Cup, making each match a historic event in the realm of soccer.
Insights into Argentina's World Cup Journey
How did Argentina perform statistically against Egypt?
Argentina dominated with 65% possession, 18 shots, and six corners, compared to Egypt's 35% possession, four shots, and one corner.
Who scored the goals for Argentina in their comeback win?
Cristian "Cuti" Romero scored the first goal, followed by two goals from Lionel Messi, securing the 3-2 victory.
What changes did Argentina's coach make during the match?
The coach substituted Tagliafico and De Paul for Nico González and Lautaro Martínez, intensifying Argentina's offensive strategy.