Messi Leads Argentina’s Dramatic Comeback Against Egypt, Switzerland Also Advance

Atlanta: (Sports Desk) – Lionel Messi inspired Argentina to a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt in the FIFA World Cup last-16 clash, helping the defending champions book their place in the quarter-finals.

Egypt appeared on course for one of the biggest upsets of the tournament after Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Zico scored to give their side a 2-0 lead with only 11 minutes remaining at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Argentina, however, produced a remarkable late revival. Cristian Romero pulled one back in the 79th minute with a header from Messi’s accurate cross. Four minutes later, Messi volleyed home the equaliser, scoring his eighth goal of the tournament and bringing Argentina level at 2-2.

With the match heading towards extra time, Enzo Fernandez scored the winning goal in the second minute of stoppage time to complete Argentina’s stunning fightback.

Messi became emotional after the final whistle and said the team was determined to remain in the competition.
“Coming back from 2-0 down was not easy, especially in a World Cup where no team gives up easily,” Messi said. “It was a moment of happiness and relief. We wanted to stay in the tournament and did not want this to be the end for us.”
The match also saw Messi miss a first-half penalty, while Egypt had a second-half goal ruled out following a controversial VAR decision. Egypt coach Hossam Hassan strongly criticised the officiating, claiming his side had been treated unfairly.

Argentina will now face Switzerland in the quarter-finals in Kansas City on Saturday.

Switzerland secured their place in the last eight after defeating Colombia 4-3 in a penalty shoot-out following a goalless draw after extra time in Vancouver. The victory marked Switzerland’s first World Cup quarter-final appearance since 1954.
Argentina and Switzerland’s wins completed the quarter-final line-up, with France set to face Morocco in another last-eight clash.