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Lionel Messi inspired another memorable FIFA World Cup comeback as Argentina overturned a two-goal deficit to defeat Egypt 3-2 and book their place in the quarterfinals.
Argentina looked to be heading for elimination during Tuesday's Round of 16 clash after Egypt built a commanding 2-0 lead that held until the closing stages of the match. However, the reigning world champions produced a dramatic late rally to keep their title defence alive.
The comeback began with less than 15 minutes remaining when defender Cristian Romero headed home from a Messi assist to reduce the deficit. Moments later, Messi found the back of the net himself to level the score at 2-2 and ignite Argentina's hopes.
Deep into the seven minutes of added time, midfielder Enzo Fernández completed the remarkable turnaround by heading in the winning goal, sealing a thrilling 3-2 victory and sending Argentina into the last eight.
After the final whistle in Atlanta, an emotional Messi celebrated with teammates before acknowledging the thousands of Argentina supporters inside the stadium. The 39-year-old embraced his fellow players, waved to the fans and was seen using his shirt to wipe away tears during the celebrations.
The 2026 tournament marks Messi's sixth FIFA World Cup appearance, having first represented Argentina on football's biggest stage in 2006. He captained the nation to World Cup glory in 2022, scoring seven goals during the successful campaign in Qatar and earning the tournament's Golden Ball award for the second time.
Messi has continued to add to his remarkable legacy during the 2026 competition. After scoring his record-extending 18th World Cup goal earlier in the tournament, he set another milestone against Egypt by registering his ninth World Cup assist, the most by any player in the competition's history.
His wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, celebrated his earlier scoring record on Instagram, writing that it was a privilege to watch him continue making history before expressing her love and support.
Ahead of the tournament, Messi acknowledged the different mindset Argentina carried after lifting the trophy four years ago. Speaking to ESPN before the competition, he said winning the World Cup had given the squad confidence while easing some of the pressure that comes with competing on football's biggest stage. He also stressed that Argentina needed to make the most of its current generation of players.
Argentina will now turn its attention to the quarterfinals, where Messi and his teammates will face the winner of the Round of 16 encounter between Switzerland and Colombia as they continue their pursuit of back-to-back World Cup titles.
