Argentina Set to Face Egypt in Knockout Match

This picture shows Egypt's forward #10 Mohamed Salah in Agadir on January 5, 2026 (L), and Argentina's forward #10 Lionel Messi in Kansas City on June 16, 2026. Photo: FRANCK FIFE / AFP

Argentina heads into the Round of 16 as favourites, but Egypt has shown they can give tough competition to stronger teams and make their own mark.

WHAT TO WATCH

• Messi vs. Salah

The main matchup is between Lionel Messi and Mohamed Salah. Messi is still the heart of Argentina's attack, while Salah has led Egypt to their best World Cup performance ever and has been key in their goals.

• Argentina’s defence under pressure

The defending champions needed extra time to beat Cape Verde after giving away leads twice. Coach Lionel Scaloni expects a stronger defensive performance this time.

• Egypt’s strong spirit

Egypt moved forward by defeating Australia in a penalty shootout after a tough 120 minutes. Under coach Hossam Hassan, they have become tough to break down and dangerous on counterattacks.

MESSI AND SALAH TOURNAMENT STATS

Messi is among the top scorers of the tournament, averaging over a goal per game while leading Argentina's offense. With seven goals, he is at the top of the Golden Boot race.

Salah’s numbers are not as high, but they do not tell the whole story. He has two goals and two assists but also leads Egypt in chances created and is the emotional backbone of a team reaching the knockout stage for the first time ever.

WINNER’S PATH TO QUARTERFINALS

The winner of Argentina vs. Egypt will have a good chance to reach the semifinals, but the quarterfinals will present a tougher challenge.

• Quarterfinal opponent

The winner will play against either Switzerland or Colombia in the quarterfinals. This means they won't face traditional powerhouses until the semifinals.

If Argentina moves ahead
vs. Switzerland: Argentina might control more of the ball but will need to break through one of the best defenses in the tournament.
vs. Colombia: This could be a harder match. Colombia has been dangerous during transitions and can take advantage of Argentina's defensive weaknesses seen against Cape Verde.

Semifinal outlook: Likely a matchup with either England or Norway, who have already reached the quarterfinals by beating Mexico and Brazil.

If Egypt moves ahead
An Egyptian win over Argentina would be one of the biggest surprises of the tournament, but the road ahead would still be tough.
vs. Switzerland: This would be a match between two strong defensive teams, likely decided by a moment of magic from Salah.
vs. Colombia: This game would be more open and play into Egypt’s counterattacking strength, although Colombia’s physical play would be a serious challenge.

For Argentina, this is seen as a good chance to reach the semifinals, but only if they tighten their defense. For Egypt, beating Argentina could lead to an amazing journey, with no unbeatable teams between them and the last four.