With an epic turnaround in Atlanta, Argentina beats Egypt 3-2, keeping the dream of a fourth world title alive and advancing to the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals.
The hearts of Argentina fans were tested to the limit this Tuesday (7). In a thrilling round of 16 clash at the 2026 World Cup, the Argentina national team proved why they are the defending champions by pulling off a spectacular comeback against Egypt. After falling behind 2-0, Lionel Scaloni‘s side dug deep to win 3-2 and secure their spot in the next round.
The result keeps the dream alive for the Argentines, who are looking to repeat the historic feat achieved by Brazil and Italy: winning two consecutive World Cups. The match, held in Atlanta, United States, was a trial by fire for the reigning champions, who saw Egypt—in their best-ever campaign—dominate much of the contest with goals from Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Abdelraouf.
Messi takes center stage in the Albiceleste reaction
Despite a first half to forget, during which he missed a penalty—his second spot-kick miss of the tournament—Lionel Messi once again showed his decisive power. The number 10 led the Argentine pressure following the second-half hydration break, playing an active role in the comeback.
With his goal in the match, the star reached the impressive milestone of 21 World Cup goals and pulled ahead in the scoring race for this edition, totaling eight strikes. Furthermore, Messi extended his historic streak, having found the back of the net in nine consecutive World Cup matches.
“The Argentine comeback was built on resilience: Romero cut the deficit with a header, Messi leveled the score, and Enzo Fernández sealed the quarterfinal berth in stoppage time following a precise assist from Lautaro Martínez.”
Road to the semifinals
The victory also featured a decisive moment involving the officials. Referee François Letexier, assisted by VAR, disallowed a third Egyptian goal for a foul in the buildup, keeping Argentina in the game before the comeback took shape. Coach Hossam Hassan, on the Egyptian side, saw his counter-attacking scheme neutralized by the South Americans’ aggressiveness in the final moments.
Now, expectations turn to the next opponent. Argentina awaits the winner of the clash between Switzerland and Colombia. The quarterfinal match already has a set date and venue: Saturday (11) in Kansas City. With the grit, love, and passion that drive the squad, the Argentines remain firm in their mission to add a fourth star to their jersey.
