In a dramatic World Cup match, Argentina defeated Egypt 3-2, thanks to Lionel Messi’s stellar performance. He scored his tournament eighth goal, helping the defending champions overcome a challenging two-goal deficit in the last 11 minutes of regulation time.
The victory sets up Argentina to face Switzerland or Colombia in the quarterfinals on Saturday in Kansas City, Missouri. Messi, overwhelmed with emotion after the game, netted his 21st World Cup goal in the 83rd minute, leveling the score at 2-2.
Enzo Fernandez secured the win in stoppage time, marking one of the World Cup’s remarkable comebacks, which began with Cristian Romero’s goal in the 79th minute. “This is a phenomenal group that never gives up,” said Fernandez, expressing their intent to enjoy and win this World Cup.
The match saw Argentina trailing due to goals from Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Zico. Although Messi missed a first-half penalty that Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir saved, he continued to push forward, even hitting the post at one point.
The game appeared bleak for Messi, potentially in his last World Cup, as Egypt initially led in the 15th minute. Yasser Ibrahim took advantage of Marwan Attia’s cross, scoring with a header.
Argentina had a quick chance to equalize when Haissem Hassan fouled Nicolas Tagliafico, leading to a penalty spot call by referee François Letexier. However, Shobeir’s save denied Messi another opportunity, marking his second penalty miss in the tournament.
Messi, the all-time leading World Cup scorer, has now missed four of eight penalties in tournament history. Despite a hit off the post and another impressive save by Shobeir from Julian Alvarez, Argentina’s resilience carried them through.
Mostafa Zico thought he doubled Egypt’s lead before a video review overturned the goal. He eventually scored in the 67th minute, putting Egypt ahead again, but it was not enough to deter Argentina’s comeback.
Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, praised his team. “What a group of players,” he said, deeply moved by the performance and spirit displayed on the field.