An emotional Lionel Messi inspired Argentina to a stunning 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt, keeping their World Cup dreams alive in a thrilling encounter. Trailing 2-0 with 11 minutes to play, the 39-year-old captain produced a goal and an assist to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.
Egypt's early dominance
Egypt stunned the world champions with a first-half header from Yasser Ibrahim in the 15th minute, following a corner from Marwan Attia. Goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir, son of former Egypt keeper Ahmed Shobeir, was in inspired form, saving a penalty from Messi and making several other stops to keep Argentina at bay.
Egypt doubled their lead early in the second half through Mostafa Ziko, who finished after a brilliant run by Haissem Hassan and a pass from Mohamed Salah. Argentina were staring at elimination.
Messi's magic turns the tide
Messi provided a pinpoint cross for Cristian Romero to head home in the 79th minute, halving the deficit. Four minutes later, he equalised with a powerful shot that Shobeir got two hands to but couldn't keep out. The goal made Messi the first player to score in six successive World Cup knockout matches and extended his tournament record to eight goals.
Deep into stoppage time, Enzo Fernández headed home the winner from Lautaro Martínez's cross, sparking wild celebrations. Egypt were incensed, believing there had been a foul in the buildup, but the goal stood.
Historic comeback and quarterfinal berth
According to FIFA, no team had ever come back from a two-goal deficit so late in a World Cup match. The victory sent Argentina through to the quarterfinals, where they will face Switzerland on July 12.
"It's incredible," said Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni, who was too emotional to finish his post-match interview. "This team never gives up."
For Egypt, there was heartbreak but also pride. "We gave everything," said Egypt manager Hossam Hassan. "The VAR decision was tough, but we showed we belong at this level."
