Argentina staged a dramatic comeback to defeat Egypt 3-2 and book a place in the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after a thrilling Round of 16 clash at Atlanta Stadium.
Egypt appeared on course for one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history after goals from Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Zico gave Hossam Hassan’s side a commanding two-goal advantage.
The Pharaohs had taken a shock lead through Ibrahim’s header, while goalkeeper Mostafa Shoubir produced a series of outstanding saves to frustrate the reigning champions.
Shoubir denied Lionel Messi from the penalty spot after Nicolas Tagliafico won a spot-kick, before making further impressive saves to keep out Alexis Mac Allister and Julian Alvarez.
Egypt thought they had doubled their lead just before the hour mark when Zizo found the net after excellent work from Haissem Hassan and Mohamed Salah, but the effort was ruled out for a foul in the build-up.
The second goal eventually arrived moments later as Mostafa Zico finished off a swift counter-attack involving Salah and Hassan to put Egypt within touching distance of a famous victory.
However, Argentina mounted a stunning late fightback. Christian Romero pulled one back before Messi produced a brilliant finish to level the contest.
Enzo Fernandez then completed the remarkable turnaround with the winning goal, sealing a 3-2 victory for Argentina and sending the South Americans into the quarter-finals, where they will face the winners of the Switzerland versus Colombia tie.
