In a thrilling last-16 match at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Argentina came from two goals down to defeat Egypt 3-2 and advance to the World Cup quarter-finals. The defending champions showed remarkable resilience.

Egypt took the lead in the 15th minute when Yasser Ibrahim headed home from a corner, outjumping Lisandro Martinez. Argentina dominated possession but struggled to break down the Egyptian defense. Lionel Messi missed a penalty in the first half, with goalkeeper Mustafa Shobeir making a fine save.

Egypt doubled their lead in the 67th minute through Mustafa Ziko, who finished a swift counter-attack after a pass from Mohamed Salah. Argentina appeared to be on the brink of elimination.

However, Argentina fought back. In the 79th minute, Cristian Romero scored with a header from Messi's cross. Four minutes later, Messi equalized with a powerful shot under the bar, his eighth goal of the tournament.

The winner came in stoppage time: Lautaro Martinez delivered a perfect cross to Enzo Fernandez, who headed home in the 92nd minute to complete the comeback. Argentina secured a dramatic 3-2 victory.

Argentina will face the winner of Colombia vs Switzerland in the quarter-finals. Lionel Messi was named man of the match.

Source: www.gazeta.uz