Argentina Pull Off Epic Late Comeback to Reach FIFA World Cup Quarterfinals

Argentina pulled off a stunning late comeback to beat Egypt 3-2 at Atlanta Stadium in Georgia and book their place in the FIFA World Cup quarterfinals.

The defending champions were two goals down until the 79th minute before Cristian Romero, Lionel Messi, and Enzo Fernandez scored in a dramatic finish. It was Argentina’s first comeback in a World Cup knockout match since their 2-1 extra-time win over Mexico in 2006.

Egypt made a dream start when Yasser Ibrahim headed them in front in the 15th minute after getting ahead of Lisandro Martinez inside the box.

Argentina had a golden chance to level soon after when Nicolás Tagliafico was fouled by Haissem Hassan inside the area. However, Messi’s penalty was saved by Mostafa Shobeir, who dived to his left and pushed the ball away with both hands.

Egypt then doubled their advantage in the 67th minute through Mostafa Ziko, who had earlier seen a goal ruled out.

Argentina finally responded in the 79th minute when Romero powered home a header from Messi’s delivery. Four minutes later, Messi made up for his missed penalty by scoring the equalizer after the ball bounced off substitute Gonzalo Montiel and fell into his path following a move involving Lautaro Martinez.

Enzo Fernandez completed the turnaround in the second minute of stoppage time, scoring the winner to send Argentina into the quarterfinals, where they will face Switzerland.