Messi-inspired comeback sees Argentina past Egypt into World Cup Quarters
Argentina fought back from a 2-0 deficit to beat Egypt 3-2 at the Atlanta Stadium on Tuesday to qualify for the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals.
The defending champions produced a battling performance to stun the North Africans with three late goals.
Yasser Ibrahim gave Egypt an early lead in the 15th minute with a brilliant header.
Lionel Messi missed from the penalty spot in the 21st minute to become the first player in World Cup history to miss two penalties at a single edition (excluding shootouts).
Argentina struggled to find the equaliser as the first half ended 1-0 in favour of Egypt.
Mostafa Zico made it 2-0 for Egypt with a close range finish in the 67th minute.
Christian Romero reduced the deficit for Argentina in the 79th minute with a glancing header from Montiel’s cross.
Four minutes later, Lionel Messi restored parity for the defending champions with a powerful effort in the box to make it 2-2.
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Enzo Fernandez clipped in a towering header to make it 3-2 in the 91st minute to send Argentina to the last eight of the tournament.
Argentina will face the winner between Switzerland and Colombia in the quarter-finals on Sunday.
Top Stats From Argentina vs Egypt
Messi is the first player in FIFA World Cup history to score in six consecutive knockout stage matches.
Messi is the first player in World Cup history to miss two penalties at a single edition (excluding shootouts).
Messi has now provided more World Cup assists than any other player on record (9).
His assist for Cristian Romero moves him clear of the late, great, Diego Maradona.
