Argentina Pulls Off Miraculous 3-2 Comeback Win Against Egypt to Reach Quarterfinals

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In the Round of 16 of the North and Central America World Cup, defending champion Argentina has advanced to the quarterfinals after a dramatic comeback victory against Egypt. The "God of Football," Lionel Messi, saved his team from the brink of elimination with a goal and an assist.

Bae Jeonghun reports.

[Reporter]

Argentina conceded the opening goal to Egypt's Ibrahim in the 15th minute of the first half and missed a golden opportunity to equalize just six minutes later.

Messi's penalty kick was accurately anticipated and saved by Egyptian goalkeeper Shobeir.

It was Messi's second missed penalty of the tournament.

Argentina launched a relentless offensive afterward but could not break through Shobeir's series of saves, and instead faced even greater danger from Egypt's sharp counterattacks.

In the 13th minute of the second half, Argentina seemed to catch a break when a goal by Egypt's Zizo was overturned following a video review. However, nine minutes later, they eventually conceded a goal to Zizo during another counterattack, falling behind by two goals.

Just as it seemed Argentina's elimination was sealed, the feet of the "God of Football," Messi, sparked to life.

In the 34th minute of the second half, he delivered a precise cross that led to Romero's goal to narrow the gap. Four minutes later, he connected with a loose ball in a chaotic scramble in front of the goal, firing a quick left-footed shot into the net.

With his 21st career World Cup goal and his 8th of this tournament, Messi moved into sole possession of the top scorer spot and embraced his teammates in celebration.

Having completely shifted the momentum thanks to Messi's performance, Argentina put an exclamation point on the 3-2 comeback victory with a header goal by Fernandez during stoppage time in the second half.

Argentina became the first team in World Cup history to overcome a deficit of two or more goals after the 33rd minute of the second half to win in regulation time.

Overcome by the unbelievable victory, Messi shed tears, and the Argentine players hoisted him into the air, celebrating the miracle created by the "God of Football."

[Messi/Argentina National Team Forward: Fortunately, our team proved our characteristic never-say-die spirit once again. As I always say, we are a team that never gives up and keeps pushing until we achieve victory. I am truly grateful that we did it again today.]

Continuing their quest for back-to-back titles, Argentina will face Switzerland on July 12 for a spot in the semifinals.

(Video Editing: Jeon Min-gyu)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.