Argentina overturned a two-goal deficit to defeat Egypt 3-2 in a dramatic FIFA World Cup 2026™ Round of 16 clash, with Enzo Fernández scoring a stoppage-time winner after late goals from Cristian Romero and Lionel Messi.
USA| By Sayer Zaland, AIPS Member
Argentina produced one of the most dramatic comebacks of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ by defeating Egypt 3-2 at Atlanta Stadium on Tuesday, July 7, advancing to the quarter-finals after a thrilling Round of 16 encounter.
The reigning champions looked destined for elimination after Egypt built a two-goal lead through Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Ziko. However, Argentina staged a remarkable late recovery, with Cristian Romero, Lionel Messi and Enzo Fernández scoring in the final stages to complete a memorable turnaround.
Argentina 3-2 Egypt
Argentina goals: Cristian Romero (79′), Lionel Messi (84′), Enzo Fernández (90+2′)
Egypt goals: Yasser Ibrahim (15′), Mostafa Ziko (67′)
Egypt started strongly and stunned Argentina when Yasser Ibrahim headed in the opening goal, giving Hossam Hassan’s side a historic advantage.
Argentina pushed for an equalizer and were awarded a penalty after Nicolas Tagliafico was brought down, but Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Shoubir produced a superb save to deny Lionel Messi from the spot. Shoubir continued his outstanding performance with crucial saves against Alexis Mac Allister and Julián Álvarez.
Egypt appeared to have doubled their advantage before the hour mark when Haissem Hassan launched a quick attack and set up a goal that was later ruled out for a foul in the build-up. The setback did not stop the Pharaohs, as Mostafa Ziko soon scored after a rapid counter-attack involving Mohamed Salah and Hassan to make it 2-0.
With elimination approaching, Argentina responded with relentless pressure. Romero reduced the deficit in the 79th minute before Messi delivered a brilliant finish five minutes later to level the match.
The dramatic comeback was completed in stoppage time when Enzo Fernández scored the decisive goal, sending Argentina into the quarter-finals, where they will face the winner of the Switzerland-Colombia tie.
Match Records and Milestones
Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Shoubir became only the fourth goalkeeper in FIFA World Cup history to save two penalties in separate matches at a single tournament. He joined an exclusive list that includes Jan Tomaszewski, Brad Friedel and Wojciech Szczęsny.
Enzo Fernández’s winning goal was also recorded as the 3,000th goal in FIFA World Cup history.
Player of the Match
Lionel Messi was named the Michelob ULTRA Superior Player of the Match after helping Argentina complete the dramatic comeback.
What They Said
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni described the emotional victory as a reflection of his team’s determination.
“I can’t look up, I’m sorry. I’m really emotional right now. What a group of players. That’s it, I’ve got to go,” Scaloni said.
Enzo Fernández dedicated his decisive goal to his teammates and supporters, highlighting Argentina’s unity and resilience.
“I’d been longing for that goal for about three years, since the Qatar World Cup. Being able to experience moments like this, honestly, I thank God; I’m privileged,” Fernández said.
He added that Argentina’s strength came from a team that “never gives up no matter the difficulties and adversity.”
Argentina now move into the quarter-finals with their title defense alive, while Egypt leave the tournament after coming within minutes of one of the greatest World Cup shocks.