Argentina survived a nerve-shredding scare to complete one of the 2026 World Cup's most dramatic comebacks, overturning a 2-0 deficit against Egypt to advance to the quarter-finals. The reigning world champions, who had already been pushed to extra time by Cape Verde in the previous round, looked destined for a stunning group-stage exit before a breathtaking final quarter turned the tie on its head.

Egypt's commanding lead

The Pharaohs had been in complete control, with goals from Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Zico putting Egypt 2-0 ahead and seemingly on the verge of one of the tournament's greatest upsets. Argentina looked rattled, their grip on the competition loosening with every passing minute.

The comeback

Cristian Romero ignited the revival 11 minutes from the final whistle, pulling a goal back to make it 2-1 and inject fresh belief into the Argentine camp. Lionel Messi then delivered when it mattered most, drawing the match level five minutes later and sending the tie hurtling towards a breathless conclusion.

With the game seemingly destined for extra time, Enzo Fernandez settled the contest in spectacular fashion. Two minutes into injury time, he headed home a cross from Lautaro Martinez to complete an extraordinary turnaround and send Argentina through.

Quarter-final against Switzerland

The late winner sets up a last-eight meeting with Switzerland, as Argentina chase a second successive World Cup title. It was another reminder that this Argentine side refuses to be written off — no matter how precarious the situation appears.