Defending champions Argentina produced a remarkable comeback to defeat Egypt 3–2 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 and book their place in the quarter-finals. Egypt had established a two-goal lead, but Argentina scored three times in the closing stages to complete a dramatic turnaround.
Egypt took the lead in the 15th minute when Yasser Ibrahim headed home from a corner. Argentina were awarded a penalty later in the first half, but Egyptian goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir made a superb save to deny Lionel Messi, ensuring Egypt went into the break with a 1–0 advantage.
In the 67th minute, Mostafa Zico doubled Egypt’s lead to make it 2–0, putting the African side in a commanding position.
Argentina, however, mounted a stunning comeback. Cristian Romero pulled one back with a header in the 79th minute. Four minutes later, Lionel Messi equalised in the 83rd minute after being set up by Gonzalo Montiel, making it 2–2.
Deep into stoppage time, in the 90+3rd minute, Enzo Fernández headed home from a cross by Lautaro Martínez to score the winning goal and seal a memorable 3–2 victory for Argentina.
With the win, Argentina advanced to the quarter-finals, where they will face the winner of the match between Switzerland and Colombia, while Egypt’s impressive World Cup campaign came to an end.
