Argentina produced a sensational late comeback to defeat Egypt 3-2 on Tuesday and secure a place in the World Cup quarter-finals.
The South American side appeared close to a shock elimination after trailing by two goals late in the second half. However, three late strikes transformed the match and kept Argentina’s World Cup hopes alive.
Enzo Fernandez completed the dramatic turnaround by scoring the winning goal deep into stoppage time.
Egypt Make a Dream Start
Egypt began the match with confidence and took an early lead in the 15th minute. Yasser Ibrahim rose ahead of Lisandro Martinez before directing a powerful header into the far corner.
The goal gave Egypt a deserved advantage and increased the pressure on Argentina. Meanwhile, Argentina struggled to convert its chances during the opening stages.
Messi Misses From the Penalty Spot
Lionel Messi had an opportunity to bring Argentina level before halftime. However, Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir produced an important save to deny the Argentine captain from the penalty spot.
It marked Messi’s second missed penalty of the tournament. Despite dominating possession, Argentina entered the closing stages still searching for an equalizer.
Egypt Double Their Advantage
Egypt strengthened their position with 23 minutes remaining. Mostafa Zico found the net to make it 2-0 after earlier seeing another effort ruled out for offside.
At that stage, Argentina looked set for an unexpected World Cup exit. Nevertheless, the match changed dramatically during the final minutes.
Argentina Launch Incredible Fightback
Cristian Romero gave Argentina renewed hope in the 79th minute. The defender escaped his marker before heading home from close range.
Only four minutes later, Lionel Messi brought Argentina level. The captain fired a powerful shot from inside the penalty area to make the score 2-2.
As momentum shifted, Argentina continued pushing forward in search of a winner.
Fernandez Seals Victory in Stoppage Time
Argentina completed the remarkable comeback three minutes into stoppage time. Lautaro Martinez delivered a cross into the penalty area, where Enzo Fernandez rose highest to head the ball beyond Mostafa Shobeir.
The dramatic goal secured a 3-2 victory and booked Argentina’s place in the quarter-finals.
Quarter-Final Challenge Awaits
With the victory, Argentina advanced to the next stage of the World Cup. The team will now face either Switzerland or Colombia in Saturday’s quarter-final in Kansas.
After surviving a major scare against Egypt, Argentina will hope to carry its late momentum into another crucial knockout encounter as the race for the World Cup title continues.
