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Defending champion Argentina demonstrated why title holders are often defined by resilience, overcoming a two-goal deficit to defeat Egypt 3-2 in a dramatic Round of 16 match at the FIFA World Cup 2026 and secure a place in the quarterfinals.
For much of the match, Argentina appeared headed for an early exit. Captain Lionel Messi saw his penalty kick saved by Egyptian goalkeeper Mostafa Shoubir, while Egypt built a commanding 2-0 lead that remained intact until the 79th minute.
Argentina, however, mounted a remarkable late comeback. Cristian Romero pulled one goal back before Messi scored the equalizer, his ninth goal of the tournament. Enzo Fernandez then completed the turnaround with the winning goal, sealing one of the most memorable victories of the competition.
Messi also played a key role in Argentina’s opening goal, orchestrating the attack that sparked the comeback.
Egypt looked poised to produce one of the tournament’s biggest upsets. Yasser Ibrahim gave the Pharaohs an early lead, and Shoubir delivered a standout performance by saving Messi’s penalty after Nicolas Tagliafico earned the spot kick. The Egyptian goalkeeper also denied Alexis Mac Allister and Julian Alvarez with a series of impressive saves.
Egypt thought it had doubled its advantage shortly before halftime when Haissem Hassan broke down the right flank and set up Mostafa Ziko, but the goal was ruled out for a foul in the buildup.
The second goal eventually came through Ziko, who finished a swift counterattack involving Hassan and Mohamed Salah to put Egypt ahead 2-0 and seemingly in control of the match.
Argentina responded with urgency in the closing stages. Romero’s goal shifted the momentum before Messi leveled the score with a composed finish. Fernandez then completed the comeback, sending the defending champions into the last eight.
Argentina will face Switzerland in the quarterfinals after the Swiss defeated Colombia 4-3 in a penalty shootout following a scoreless draw through regulation and extra time.
The victory marked Switzerland’s second straight knockout win at Vancouver’s BC Place, where it had previously eliminated co-host Canada. Switzerland advanced from a group featuring Canada, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Qatar.
With the result, Switzerland became the sixth European nation to reach the quarterfinals, joining France, Spain, Norway, Belgium, and England. Argentina is the lone South American representative remaining in the last eight, while Morocco is Africa’s sole quarterfinalist.
The emotional scenes after the final whistle contrasted sharply with the previous day’s outcome, when Cristiano Ronaldo was left in tears following Portugal’s elimination by Spain. This time, it was Messi who was overcome with emotion after leading Argentina to an unforgettable comeback victory.
