Defending champions Argentina produced one of the most dramatic comebacks of the FIFA World Cup 2026, overturning a two-goal deficit to defeat Egypt 3-2 and book a place in the quarterfinals.
Egypt looked set for a famous victory after Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Zico scored to give their side a 2-0 lead. The African nation even had a third goal ruled out following a VAR review, leaving Argentina with just over 10 minutes to rescue their title defence.
Cristian Romero sparked the revival with a powerful header in the 79th minute before Lionel Messi levelled the contest four minutes later with his eighth goal of the tournament and a record-extending 21st World Cup goal. Deep into stoppage time, Enzo Fernández completed the remarkable turnaround, sending Argentine fans into celebration.
An emotional Messi was seen in tears after the final whistle as Argentina kept alive its dream of becoming the first team since Brazil (1958 and 1962) to win back-to-back men’s World Cup titles.
Argentina will now face Switzerland in the quarterfinals on Saturday, with confidence soaring after one of the greatest comeback victories in World Cup history.
