Argentina beat Egypt 3‑2 in extra time on Tuesday July 7, securing a place in the World Cup 2026 quarter‑finals. Enzo Fernández's 93rd‑minute strike sparked wild celebrations and completed the comeback that left the team among the world’s top eight.

How did the match unfold?

Argentina started pressuring early, but Egypt opened the scoring at the 23rd minute. A missed penalty and a disallowed goal added drama. Enzo Fernández equalised at 71, and Julián Álvarez made it 2‑2 at 84. Referee François Letexier reviewed a minimal foul that nullified a potential 0‑2 for Egypt, sparking VAR controversy. The deadlock held until extra time, when Fernández, with a long‑range shot, netted the decisive 3‑2.

What does the win mean for Argentina?

The victory places the Albiceleste among the last eight and keeps the dream alive of Messi ending his career with a world title. Lionel Messi now tops the scoring chart with eight goals, ahead of Mbappé and Haaland, who have seven each. This puts him in contention for the Golden Boot, though assists will break any tie.

What are the coach and players saying?

Lionel Scaloni praised the squad’s resilience, saying “every minute matters and today we showed heart.” Enzo Fernández, thrilled, called his goal “the goal of my life.” Leandro Paredes noted that nobody wants this to be Messi’s last match, giving the team extra motivation. Lautaro Martínez, while not scoring, highlighted the group’s unity and ability to respond under pressure.

What is Argentina’s recent context?

Before this clash, Argentina had won its last three matches (3W‑0D‑0L), maintaining a perfect run that includes a 0‑2 victory over Angola on November 14, 2025. That form built confidence heading into the Egypt game. With the round of 16 cleared, the next test will be against Switzerland or Colombia in the quarter‑finals, scheduled for 22:00 local time.

The 2026 World Cup continues to prove that the final minutes decide everything; just as Haaland’s late double against Brazil or Paraguay’s penalty shoot‑out win over Germany. Argentina now aims to write its own epic chapter in tournament history.