Messi, Romero, Fernandez anchor Argentina's stunning 3-2 comeback win over Egypt to reach quarter-finals

Defending champions Argentina mounted a stunning comeback to defeat Egypt 3-2 in a thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match, securing their place in the quarter-finals.

Egypt took a surprising 2-0 lead in the second half with goals from Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Ziko, the latter's strike coming after a swift counterattack. This put Argentina in a precarious position, especially after Lionel Messi missed a penalty early in the game.

However, Argentina responded with renewed urgency. Cristian Romero ignited the comeback in the 79th minute, heading home a free-kick from Messi. Just four minutes later, Messi himself leveled the score with a powerful shot that found the net.

As the match headed towards extra time, Enzo Fernandez completed the remarkable turnaround in stoppage time. He calmly slotted a low finish into the bottom corner after a loose ball fell to him on the edge of the penalty area, sealing a dramatic 3-2 victory.

Argentina will now face the winner of the upcoming Round of 16 clash between Switzerland and Colombia in the quarter-finals.