Lionel Messi once again proved why he is regarded as one of football’s greatest players, inspiring Argentina to a remarkable 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt to send the defending champions into the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
For much of the Round of 16 clash at Atlanta Stadium, Argentina looked set for a shock elimination after Egypt established a two-goal lead and frustrated the South American giants with a disciplined defensive display.
Yasser Ibrahim gave Egypt the breakthrough in the first half before Mostafa Zico doubled their advantage after the interval, leaving Lionel Scaloni’s side staring at an early exit from the tournament.
Argentina’s task became even more difficult when Messi missed a first-half penalty, with Egyptian goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir producing an excellent save. The miss marked another unwanted record for the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, who became the first player to miss two penalties in a single World Cup, excluding shootouts.
Despite the setback, Argentina refused to surrender.
With just 11 minutes remaining, Messi sparked the comeback by delivering a pinpoint cross that Cristian Romero powered into the net with a towering header to halve the deficit.
The equaliser arrived only minutes later.
Receiving the ball on the edge of the penalty area, Messi created just enough space before unleashing a brilliant left-footed strike that flew beyond Shobeir and crashed in off the crossbar, bringing Argentina level and sending their supporters into celebration.
The defending champions completed the incredible turnaround deep into stoppage time.
Enzo Fernández rose highest to head home the winning goal, sealing a dramatic 3-2 victory and crushing Egypt’s hopes of reaching the quarter-finals.
The dramatic comeback transformed the atmosphere inside Atlanta Stadium. Moments after appearing on the verge of elimination, Argentina’s players celebrated wildly as Messi, overcome with emotion, was embraced by his teammates before being lifted into the air by the jubilant squad.
The victory keeps Argentina’s hopes of retaining the World Cup alive and further enhances Messi’s remarkable tournament legacy.
Although the 39-year-old no longer possesses the pace of his younger years, he once again demonstrated that his vision, composure and ability to influence the biggest matches remain as sharp as ever.
For Egypt, the defeat was a heartbreaking end to an outstanding performance. They came within minutes of producing one of the biggest upsets of the tournament before Argentina’s late rally denied them a famous victory.
Argentina now advance to the quarter-finals with renewed belief as they continue their quest to successfully defend the FIFA World Cup title.