Lionel Messi once again proved his enduring brilliance, leading Argentina to a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt in a thrilling World Cup knockout match. With just 11 minutes of regulation time remaining, the world champions appeared to be heading for a major upset as they trailed by two goals following an early header from Yasser Ibrahim and a second strike from Mostafa Ziko.
Egypt’s goalkeeper, Mostafa Shobeir—the son of 1990 World Cup veteran Ahmed Shobeir—delivered a standout performance throughout the match, repeatedly frustrating the Argentine attack. Messi, who had earlier become the first player in World Cup history to miss two penalties in a single tournament, eventually turned the tide. He provided a crucial assist for Cristian Romero to narrow the deficit before scoring his 21st career World Cup goal—and his eighth of this tournament—to level the score with eight minutes left. This achievement moved him ahead of Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland in the scoring charts.
The winning goal arrived in a dramatic final sequence. Mohamed Salah lost possession in a move that culminated in Lautaro Martínez delivering a cross for Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández, who headed home the decisive goal. Egypt’s players were incensed, claiming a foul had occurred during the build-up, but the goal stood. This victory marks the first time a team has overturned a two-goal deficit so late in a World Cup match.
Following the final whistle, a tearful Messi, who became the first player to score in six consecutive knockout matches, was hoisted into the air by his teammates. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni, who had previously warned his squad to remain alert after a narrow escape against Cape Verde, was visibly overwhelmed by the result and unable to complete his post-match interview.
The golden rule of football? Never write off Lionel Messi. Just when it looked like his dream of leading Argentina to the bicampeonato was in tatters, the 39-year-old came to his country’s rescue for the umpteenth time in spectacular fashion.
Messi had earlier become the first player in World Cup history to miss twice from the penalty spot in the same tournament but there was to be no denying him here. An assist for Cristian Romero gave Argentina a lifeline before he extended his World Cup record to 21 goals and eight at this tournament – one ahead of Kylia
