Defending champions Argentina produced a dramatic late comeback to defeat Egypt 3-2 and book their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after recovering from a two-goal deficit in Atlanta.

The holders appeared to be heading for a shock exit after Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Ziko gave Egypt a commanding lead. Lionel Messi also endured a frustrating afternoon after seeing a first-half penalty saved by goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir.

Cristian Romero sparked Argentina’s revival with a powerful header before Messi redeemed himself by smashing home the equaliser with seven minutes remaining. Enzo Fernandez then completed the remarkable turnaround with a stoppage-time header to send the holders into the last eight.

Messi’s goal was his eighth of the tournament, moving him back to the top of the Golden Boot standings. The Argentina captain was visibly emotional after the final whistle as he celebrated the victory with his teammates.

Egypt were left disappointed after a controversial VAR review ruled out what would have been their second goal early in the second half. The decision proved pivotal, with the Pharaohs later conceding three goals in the closing stages. A member of Egypt’s coaching staff was also sent off following Argentina’s winning goal.

Argentina had struggled from the start, despite manager Lionel Scaloni making several changes following their narrow victory over Cape Verde in the previous round.

After Ibrahim’s opener, Messi missed from the penalty spot, becoming the first player to miss two penalties in a single World Cup tournament after also failing from 12 yards during the group stage. Shobeir continued his outstanding performance with impressive saves to deny Alexis Mac Allister and Julian Alvarez.

Egypt thought they had doubled their advantage shortly after the break through Mostafa Ziko, but the goal was ruled out following a VAR review for a foul in the build-up. Ziko eventually got his goal moments later after another swift counter-attack, putting Egypt 2-0 ahead.

Argentina responded with determination as Romero’s header reduced the deficit before Messi’s equaliser shifted the momentum. Fernandez then headed home in stoppage time to seal one of the tournament’s most dramatic comebacks.

Argentina will now face either Colombia or Switzerland in the quarter-finals as they continue their defence of the World Cup title.