Key Takeaways
- Argentina overcame a 2-0 deficit to defeat Egypt 3-2 and advance to the quarter-finals.
- Lionel Messi scored twice, including the equaliser and the winner, as his team fought back.
- The victory ensures Lionel Messi’s World Cup career continues.
Argentina staged a remarkable comeback from 2-0 down against Egypt to secure a 3-2 win in their FIFA World Cup last-16 match. The holders looked destined for an early exit when goals from Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Ziko put the Pharaohs within sight of a historic victory.
However, Cristian Romero’s header sparked Argentina's comeback as they struck three times in the final 11 minutes plus stoppage time. Lionel Messi smashed home the equaliser to score for his ninth consecutive World Cup game and retake the lead for the Golden Boot with eight goals this tournament.
The match saw a dramatic finish, with Enzo Fernandez completing the turnaround two minutes into stoppage time by heading in a cross from Lautaro Martinez. The victory was celebrated by Messi, who shed tears of joy as he embraced his teammates at full-time.
Despite several controversial calls against them, including a disallowed goal and a red card to an Egyptian coach, Argentina managed to secure their place in the quarter-finals. Lionel Scaloni made changes to his side, bringing in Nicolas Tagliafico, Leandro Paredes, and Julian Alvarez from the starting line-up.
The win ensures that Messi’s World Cup career continues, with him now having scored 21 goals at the tournament. His performance was crucial as he constantly probed for an opportunity to turn the game around, eventually succeeding in his efforts.
Egypt were left furious after a number of controversial calls went against them, including a disallowed goal early in the second half and a red card to one of their coaching staff following the winning goal. The match was played at Atlanta, with Argentina facing either Colombia or Switzerland in the next round on Saturday.
