Messi inspires Argentina’s 3-2 comeback over Egypt

Argentina are through to the World Cup quarterfinals after coming from 2-0 down to beat Egypt 3-2 with three late goals at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

Egypt looked set for one of the biggest upsets of the tournament when Yasser Ibrahim opened the scoring in the 15th minute from Marawan Attia’s cross. Argentina were awarded a penalty shortly after, but Messi, who had also missed from the spot against Austria in the group stage, saw his effort comfortably saved by Mostafa Shobeir.

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Mostafa Zico doubled Egypt’s lead in the 67th minute, assisted by Hossam Hassan.

Cristian Romero pulled one back in the 79th minute, heading in Messi’s cross. Four minutes later, substitute Gonzalo Montiel teed up Messi for a left-footed volley that struck the crossbar before bouncing over the line for the equaliser.

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Enzo Fernández headed home Lautaro Martínez’s cross in the second minute of stoppage time to complete Argentina’s comeback and send the defending champions into the last eight.

Messi now has eight goals at this tournament to lead the Golden Boot race. He has also scored in nine consecutive World Cup matches, extending his own record. Argentina will face the winner of Switzerland versus Colombia in Kansas City.