Argentina achieves epic comeback against Egypt in 13 minutes, reaches quarterfinals

Argentina completed an epic comeback on Tuesday, overcoming a two-goal deficit with just 11 minutes left to secure a 3-2 victory over Egypt and advance to the quarterfinals. They will now face the winner of the Switzerland-Colombia match.

From the outset, Egypt demonstrated their ability to control possession and press intensely, a tactic Scaloni's Argentina had anticipated. While Argentina sought to refine their passing to create opportunities, and had a De Paul play disallowed for offside, it was Egypt who struck first. A free-kick from Marawan Attia found defender Yasser Ibrahim, who headed the ball into the net past Lisandro Martínez.

Argentina's response was immediate. Three minutes later, a precise pass set up Tagliafico on the right flank, who was fouled by Haissem Hassan. Messi stepped up to take the penalty, but Egyptian goalkeeper Shobeir guessed correctly and saved the shot. The hydration break highlighted Argentina's situation; they had to play from behind for the first time since their 2022 loss to Saudi Arabia, facing a tenacious opponent.

Despite the setback, Argentina created more chances, with Mac Allister's header and a Messi free-kick hitting the post. Egyptian keeper Shobeir made crucial saves, denying Álvarez and Tagliafico. Argentina generated seven chances in the first half compared to Egypt's two, but could not convert. The second half proved more challenging as Egypt grew more comfortable, waiting for a counter-attack opportunity. A spectacular solo run by Haissem Hassan led to Mostafa Zico scoring for Egypt, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR review for a prior foul on Lisandro Martínez. However, Egypt struck again six minutes later with Hassan involved in a counter-attack that found Hassan on the right.