Messi Leads Argentina to Last-Minute Win Against Egypt

Lionel Messi showed again why many call him one of football's best. He helped Argentina pull off a thrilling 3-2 win over Egypt. This victory sends Argentina, the defending champions, into the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Argentina seemed in trouble after going two goals down. But Messi scored once and assisted another goal. This comeback keeps Argentina's chance to defend their title alive.

Messi also made World Cup history with this match. He became the first player to score in six straight World Cup knockout games. But it was a bittersweet night for him as he also became the first player to miss two penalties in one World Cup tournament, not counting penalty shootouts.

Egypt started strong and shocked Argentina in the 15th minute. Yasser Ibrahim headed in a goal from a well-placed corner kick.

Argentina quickly tried to respond. Haissem Hassan fouled an opponent in the box, giving Messi a penalty chance. But goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir made a fantastic save. He went on to deny Alexis Mac Allister, Messi, and Julián Álvarez before the half-time whistle.

In the second half, Egypt thought they had a second goal. Mostafa Ziko found the net, but VAR ruled it out for a foul in the build-up.

The Pharaohs did not wait long to score again. Mohamed Salah made a great pass to Hassan, who set up Ziko to put Egypt 2-0 ahead. Egyptian fans celebrated wildly.

Argentina finally broke through in the 79th minute. Cristian Romero scored with a header from Messi's perfect cross.

As the clock ran down, Messi struck again. He fired a powerful shot past Shobeir to equalize the game. The crowd felt the excitement of another possible Argentina comeback.

In stoppage time, Lautaro Martínez broke free and crossed to Enzo Fernández. Enzo headed in the dramatic winner, sealing the match for Argentina.

Now, Argentina will meet either Switzerland or Colombia in the quarter-finals. Egypt, on the other hand, exits the tournament after their best World Cup performance ever, reaching the knockout stage for the first time.