Lionel Messi scored his record-extending 21st World Cup goal as Argentina staged a remarkable late rally to defeat Egypt 3-2 and advance to the quarter-finals on Tuesday.
The defending champions trailed 2-0 after Egypt took a surprise lead through Yasser Ibrahim and added a second goal in the 67th minute. But Argentina mounted a stunning response, with Cristian Romero pulling one back in the 79th minute before Messi equalised moments later.
Enzo Fernandez headed the winner in stoppage time, sending the crowd at Mercedes-Benz Stadium into delirium. Argentina will face the winner of Switzerland or Colombia in the last eight.
Messi missed a penalty earlier in the match, but his equaliser proved crucial in a game that saw Egypt have another goal controversially overturned by VAR. The victory keeps Argentina’s title defence alive despite a difficult evening.
