Lionel Messi delivered another historic performance as Argentina came from two goals down to defeat Egypt 3-2 in a thrilling FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash, booking the defending champions’ place in the quarter-finals.
The 39-year-old captain overcame the disappointment of an early missed penalty to inspire a remarkable comeback, providing an assist before scoring the equaliser as Argentina kept their title defence alive.
The victory also saw Messi surpass Diego Maradona as the player with the most assists in FIFA World Cup history since records began in 1966.
Egypt appeared on course for one of the biggest upsets of the tournament after Yasser Ibrahim headed them into the lead in the 15th minute from Marwan Attia’s cross.
Argentina had a golden opportunity to equalise six minutes later, but goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir produced an excellent save to deny Messi from the penalty spot.
The Pharaohs extended their advantage early in the second half when Mostafa Ziko finished a swift counterattack after being set up by Mohamed Salah.
Although Egypt had another goal ruled out following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review, Ziko restored the two-goal cushion in the 67th minute after racing onto Haissem Hassan’s pass to make it 2-0.
Facing elimination, Argentina launched a late fightback.
Cristian Romero sparked the comeback in the 79th minute, heading home from Messi’s corner to reduce the deficit.
Four minutes later, Messi produced the moment of brilliance Argentina desperately needed, meeting Gonzalo Montiel’s cross with a superb volley that struck the underside of the crossbar before crossing the line to make it 2-2.
With Egypt struggling to withstand relentless pressure, Argentina completed the turnaround in stoppage time as Lautaro Martínez delivered a dangerous cross that Enzo Fernández converted from close range in the 92nd minute.
Despite a disciplined display and an outstanding performance from Shobeir for much of the contest, Egypt were unable to hold off the reigning champions, who advanced after one of the most dramatic matches of the tournament.
The result also underlined Argentina’s resilience but exposed defensive vulnerabilities after they found themselves chasing the game for long periods against an inspired Egyptian side.
Messi’s decisive contribution further strengthened his remarkable World Cup legacy, with the Argentine captain continuing to rewrite the record books as he led his country into another quarter-final.
Argentina will now face Switzerland for a place in the semi-finals.
The other quarter-final fixtures include:
· Belgium vs Spain
· England vs Norway
· France vs Morocco
