Argentina rally from two goals down to knock Egypt out of World Cup

Argentina rally from two goals down to knock Egypt out of World Cup

Argentina produced a stunning second-half comeback from two goals down to defeat Egypt 3-2 and book their place in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals after a pulsating Round of 16 clash on Tuesday.

The reigning world champions looked on the brink of a shock exit after Egypt established a commanding two-goal lead, but Lionel Scaloni’s side mounted a remarkable late rally to keep their title defence alive.

Egypt made a dream start to the contest, taking the lead in the 15th minute through Ibrahim, who rose highest to meet Attia’s cross from a recycled corner. His powerful header beat goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and nestled into the top corner, sending Egyptian fans into celebration.

Argentina had an immediate opportunity to restore parity six minutes later when Nicolas Tagliafico was brought down inside the penalty area by Hassan.

However, Lionel Messi failed to capitalise from the penalty spot, with Egyptian goalkeeper Shobeir diving the right way to produce an excellent save.

The miss also saw Messi enter the World Cup record books for an unwanted reason, becoming the first player to miss two penalties at a single FIFA World Cup, having also failed to convert from the spot during Argentina’s group-stage victory over Austria.

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Despite dominating possession for much of the opening half, Argentina struggled to break down Egypt’s disciplined defence.

Messi came close with a curling free-kick that struck the outside of the post, while Julian Alvarez was denied by another outstanding save from Shobeir as Egypt carried their slender advantage into the halftime break.

Egypt doubled their lead in the 67th minute following a swift counterattack.

Mohamed Salah initiated the move before releasing Hassan down the flank. Hassan delivered a low cross into the penalty area, where Zico arrived to calmly finish from close range, leaving Argentina staring at an early exit.

With their World Cup campaign hanging in the balance, Argentina responded with renewed urgency and intensity.

Their comeback began in the 79th minute when defender Cristian Romero powered home Messi’s corner kick. Although Shobeir managed to get a hand to the ball, he could not prevent it from crossing the line, reducing the deficit to 2-1.

Just four minutes later, Messi redeemed himself for his earlier penalty miss.

After Lautaro Martinez intelligently hooked the ball into his path following Julian Alvarez’s cushioned pass, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner fired an emphatic finish beyond Shobeir to restore parity and ignite jubilant celebrations among the Argentine supporters.

Argentina completed the dramatic turnaround deep into stoppage time.

Moments after Egypt failed to take advantage of a promising counterattack, the South Americans surged forward once again. Fernandez met a cross with a thunderous header that flew into the top corner in the 92nd minute, completing a remarkable comeback and giving Argentina a 3-2 lead.

Egyptian players and officials immediately protested, claiming Alexis Mac Allister had fouled Fathy during the build-up to the winning goal.

The referee allowed play to continue, and after the goal was awarded, tensions flared on the touchline. Goalkeeper Shobeir received a yellow card for dissent, while a member of Egypt’s coaching staff was sent off following the heated exchanges.

Argentina were forced to withstand sustained pressure during 11 minutes of added time as Egypt desperately searched for an equaliser.

The South Americans defended resolutely to preserve their narrow advantage and secure a memorable victory that sends them into the World Cup quarter-finals.

For Argentina, the comeback demonstrated the resilience and experience that have defined their recent success on the global stage, while Egypt exited the tournament with pride after producing a spirited performance that came agonisingly close to one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history.

Argentina rally from two goals down to knock Egypt out of World Cup