Lionel Messi turned a 2-0 deficit into a 3-2 triumph for Argentina on 27 June 2026, scoring the crucial equaliser and sealing the comeback in the dying minutes of the Round‑of‑16 clash against Egypt.
How did the match unfold?
Argentina fell behind early when Yasser Ibrahim netted in the 12th minute, followed by Mostafa Ziko’s strike before half‑time. A missed penalty by Messi in the 23rd minute kept the lead intact for the Pharaohs. In the second half, Cristian Romero’s header sparked the revival, and Messi’s 78th‑minute goal forced extra time. Enzo Fernandez headed home two minutes into stoppage, completing the comeback.
Why was Messi’s performance pivotal?
The Argentine captain not only rescued his team but also marked his ninth consecutive World Cup appearance with a goal, tying his own record for most World Cup matches with a goal. The strike reclaimed the Golden Boot lead, putting him ahead with eight goals in the tournament. His emotional celebration after the final whistle highlighted the personal weight of the victory.
What controversy surrounded the game?
Egypt lodged protests after two VAR decisions went against them. A disallowed goal in the second half was ruled off for a foul on Lisandro Martínez just outside the box. Later, a member of the Egyptian coaching staff received a red card following the decisive Argentine goal. Goalkeeper Mostafa Shoubir, who saved Messi’s penalty, also produced several key saves, including a spectacular stop on Alexis Mac Allister’s header.
What does this mean for Argentina’s next round?
The win propels Argentina into the quarter‑finals, where they will meet the winner of the Colombia‑Switzerland tie on 1 July 2026. Coach Lionel Scaloni praised the squad’s resilience, noting the tactical tweaks that helped overturn the early slump. Messi’s leadership will be under the microscope as Argentina eyes a third consecutive World Cup title.
Who else shone for Argentina?
Beyond Messi, Romero’s header ignited the comeback, while Enzo Fernandez’s late header sealed the win. Substitutes Nicolas Tagliafico, Leandro Paredes and Julián Álvarez added fresh legs, with Álvarez forcing a crucial save from Shoubir. The collective effort underscored Argentina’s depth and adaptability under pressure.
How did Egypt react?
Egyptian forward Mohamed Salah expressed disappointment, saying the team felt the match was theirs until the VAR call. Goalkeeper Shoubir, despite his heroics, lamented the missed opportunity, noting that “small details make the difference in big games.” The Egyptian camp left the stadium frustrated but proud of their performance.
What’s next for Messi?
Messi now faces a demanding quarter‑final against a disciplined opponent. Maintaining his scoring streak will be vital for Argentina’s title ambitions. The Argentine star, at 39, continues to defy age, showing no sign of slowing down as the tournament progresses.