Lionel Messi helped Argentina escape a heavy defeat by the Pharaohs of Egypt in a round of 16 clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Atlanta on Tuesday night.
The Pharaohs were leading 2-0 even unto the dying minutes of the game before the Argies pulled off a great comeback scoring three goals within 13 minutes.
Messi had seen a first-half penalty saved by Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir, but the Inter Miami star assisted Christian Romero half the deficit in the 79 minute.
The 39-year-old then completed the fightback when he scored the equaliser for Argentina and lift his tally to eight in the tournament. The winner came in added time.
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The Egyptians had a very fine game, and made the continent proud especially during the early parts of the game.
Yasser Ibrahim gave Egypt an early lead in the 15th minute with a brilliant header, and goalkeeper Shobeir added to their quality by making three good saves including a Messi penalty.
Mostafa Zico made it 2-0 for Egypt with a close range finish in the 67th minute. But afterwards, the team got overpowered by the defending champions as things turned around.
Romero, Messi and Enzo Fernandez each scored to seal the victory for Argentina, who will face the winner of the Switzerland vs Colombia clash, in the quarterfinals.
(Ripples)