Argentina Complete Stunning Comeback to Beat Egypt 3-2, Reach World Cup Quarterfinals

FIFA WORLD CUP 2026: Argentina produced a remarkable late comeback to defeat Egypt 3-2 and book their place in the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after trailing 2-0 deep into the second half.  

Egypt shocked the defending champions with first-half and second-half goals from Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Zico. Lionel Messi had an opportunity to pull one back earlier in the match but saw his penalty saved, leaving Argentina facing a possible exit.  

Argentina’s fightback began in the 79th minute when Cristian Romero headed home from a Messi delivery. Five minutes later, Messi redeemed himself by firing in the equalizer to make it 2-2. With extra time looming, Enzo Fernández struck in stoppage time to complete an incredible turnaround and seal a 3-2 victory for Lionel Scaloni’s side.  

The victory keeps Argentina’s World Cup title defense alive and sends the South Americans into the quarterfinals, while Egypt bows out after pushing the reigning champions to the limit in one of the tournament’s most dramatic knockout matches.  

Lionel Messi went through a rollercoaster of emotions as Argentina came from two goals down to beat Egypt 3-2 and qualify for the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Messi had a difficult start after his penalty was saved by Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir. Earlier, Yasser Ibrahim had given Egypt the lead, putting Argentina under early pressure.

Egypt doubled their advantage through Mostafa Zico, leaving the defending champions on the brink of elimination. However, Argentina fought back. Cristian Romero scored to reduce the deficit before Messi redeemed himself by scoring the equalizer to make it 2-2.

With the match heading for extra time, Enzo Fernández scored a late winner to complete Argentina’s dramatic comeback. Messi finished the match with a goal and an assist, helping keep Argentina’s World Cup title defense alive.