Argentina came from two goals down to beat Egypt 3-2 in a dramatic World Cup last-16 match, with Enzo Fernández scoring deep into added time to end Egypt’s hopes of a famous victory.
Egypt made a confident start and took the lead after 15 minutes through Yasser Ibrahim, who finished clinically to put his side ahead against the tournament favourites.
Argentina had a chance to respond soon afterwards when they were awarded a penalty in the 21st minute, but Lionel Messi failed to convert, leaving Egypt in control as the first half progressed.
Egypt thought they had doubled their advantage in the 61st minute when M Z Abdelraouf found the net, but the goal was ruled out after a foul in the build-up.
Six minutes later, however, Abdelraouf scored again and this time it counted. His goal gave Egypt a 2-0 lead and sparked scenes of celebration among their players and supporters.
For a time, Egypt looked set to produce one of the biggest results in the tournament’s history. But Argentina responded late in the match.
Romero pulled one back in the 79th minute, before Messi levelled the score four minutes later with a powerful strike.
With extra time appearing likely, Argentina completed the turnaround in the second minute of added time. Fernández scored the winner to seal a 3-2 victory and send Argentina into the quarter-finals.
Egypt’s players were left devastated after coming within minutes of a landmark win, while Argentina celebrated a remarkable escape after one of the most dramatic matches of the tournament.
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