Argentina Stages Miraculous Comeback, Scoring 3 Goals in Final 11 Minutes to Reach Quarterfinals

Defending champion Argentina has advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America after overcoming a two-goal deficit to secure a dramatic comeback victory.
Argentina, led by head coach Lionel Scaloni, trailed Egypt by two goals until the 79th minute of their Round of 16 match held in Atlanta, USA, on July 7 (local time). The team then scored three goals in just 11 minutes to complete a miraculous turnaround.
Argentina fell behind 0-2 after conceding an opening goal to Yasser Ibrahim in the 14th minute of the first half, followed by a second goal from Mostafa Zizo in the 22nd minute of the second half.
Although Egypt appeared to score another goal in the 13th minute of the second half, it was overturned following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review, which ruled that a foul had been committed against Lisandro Martinez, providing a moment of relief for Argentina.
Launching a counterattack, Argentina ignited their comeback in the 34th minute of the second half when Cristian Romero headed in a cross from Lionel Messi.
Carrying the momentum, Argentina leveled the score in the 38th minute of the second half as Messi finished a loose ball in front of the goal with a right-footed shot.
The match was decided in second-half stoppage time.
In the 48th minute of the second half, Enzo Fernandez headed in a cross from Lautaro Martinez to score the winning goal. Argentina then held onto the lead by successfully defending against Egypt's final offensive push, aided by a crucial defensive play by Leandro Paredes just before the final whistle.
Messi, who struggled earlier in the match—having a penalty kick saved by Egyptian goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir in the 18th minute and hitting the goalpost with a free kick in the 31st minute—became the centerpiece of the comeback by providing an assist for the first goal and scoring the equalizer.
When the match ended, Messi shed tears of emotion.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni, who typically remains composed during his players' goals, was also seen tearing up after the match. "What can I say?" he remarked, unable to continue as he added, "They are a great team and great players."
Argentina will face the winner of the Colombia-Switzerland match in the quarterfinals, which will be held in Kansas City, USA, on July 11.
(Photo: Getty Images)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.