Argentina Stage Stunning Comeback to Beat Egypt 3–2 and Reach FIFA World Cup Quarter-finals

Argentina Stage Stunning Comeback to Beat Egypt 3–2 and Reach FIFA World Cup Quarter-finals

Date: July 7, 2026

Defending champions Argentina produced one of the most dramatic comebacks of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday, defeating Egypt 3–2 in a thrilling Round of 16 encounter to secure a place in the quarter-finals. Led by captain Lionel Messi, Argentina overturned a two-goal deficit with three late strikes in an unforgettable match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. �

ESPN +1

Egypt stunned the reigning world champions by taking an early lead through Yasser Ibrahim in the 15th minute before Mostafa Zaki Abdelraouf doubled the advantage in the 67th minute. The African side looked on course for one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history as Argentina struggled to break down Egypt's disciplined defense. �

The Guardian +1

Argentina began their remarkable comeback in the 79th minute when Cristian Romero headed home from a Messi assist to reduce the deficit. Just four minutes later, Messi redeemed himself after an earlier missed penalty by scoring the equalizer to make it 2–2 and reignite Argentina's hopes. �

The Times of India +1

With extra time looming, Enzo Fernández rose highest in stoppage time to head home the winning goal in the 92nd minute, completing an extraordinary comeback and sending Argentine supporters into celebration. �

Sky Sports +1

Messi once again proved decisive, finishing the match with one goal and one assist despite missing a first-half penalty. His leadership and influence helped Argentina avoid a shock elimination and continue their defense of the World Cup title. �

The Guardian +1

Despite the defeat, Egypt earned widespread praise for a courageous performance. Goalkeeper Mostafa Shobair made several outstanding saves, while the Egyptian team pushed the defending champions to the brink of elimination before the late collapse. �

The Guardian +1

Argentina will now face the winner of the Switzerland versus Colombia Round of 16 match in the quarter-finals as they continue their quest to retain the FIFA World Cup trophy. �

ESPN +1

Source: ESPN, Sky Sports, The Guardian, and other match reports published on July 7, 2026. �

ESPN +2