Messi inspires comeback against Egypt as Argentina reaches W’Cup Quarters

Lionel Messi helped Argentina escape a crushing defeat to the Egyptian Pharaohs in their 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 16 match in Atlanta on Tuesday night.

The Pharaohs led 2-0 even until the final minutes of the match before the Argies made a great comeback by scoring three goals in 13 minutes.

Messi’s first-half penalty was saved by Egyptian goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir, but the Inter Miami star helped Christian Romero reduce the deficit in the 79th minute.

The 39-year-old then completed the match when he scored the equalizer for Argentina and took his tally to eight in the tournament. The winner came in extra time.

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The Egyptian team had a very good game, and made the continent proud, especially at the start of the game.

Yasser Ibrahim gave Egypt an early lead in the 15th minute with a brilliant header, and goalkeeper Shobeir added to their quality by making three fine saves including Messi’s penalty.

Mostafa Zico made it 2-0 for Egypt with a close-range finish in the 67th minute. But afterwards, the team was defeated by the defending champion when the situation turned around.

Romero, Messi and Enzo Fernandez each scored a goal to ensure victory for Argentina who will face the winner of the match Switzerland vs Colombia, in the quarter-finals.