The final day of the World Cup last 16 features two matches: defending champions Argentina take on Mohamed Salah's Egypt, while Switzerland face Colombia in Vancouver.
Argentina v Egypt: Key Details
Argentina were given an almighty scare by Cape Verde in the last 32 but survived to set up a meeting with Egypt, who are on their best-ever World Cup run. The Pharaohs should take inspiration from how close Cape Verde came to knocking out Lionel Messi and Co. Kick-off is at noon ET at Atlanta Stadium.
Cape Verde exposed weaknesses in Argentina’s setup with fearless counterattacks. Egypt will aim to play similarly, so the 2022 champions must control the game better. Egypt squeezed past Australia on penalties in the last 32.
Players to Watch
Lionel Messi, at 39, continues to define tournaments with his match-winning quality. For Egypt, Salah and Omar Marmoush provide a genuine threat in transition, while Emam Ashour could impose himself in midfield.
Switzerland v Colombia: Dark Horses Clash
Switzerland and Colombia have flown under the radar but could match their best-ever World Cup showings by reaching the quarter-finals. Kick-off is at 4pm ET at BC Place Vancouver.
Switzerland’s campaign changed when Johan Manzambi came off the bench against Bosnia and Herzegovina, electrifying the forward line. Colombia, under Néstor Lorenzo, have dangerous wingers, an energetic midfield, and reliable full-backs.
Key player: Luis Díaz of Bayern Munich is Colombia’s primary threat, pressing from the front and offering a goal threat.
