Defending champions Argentina produced a stunning late turnaround to defeat Egypt 3-2 and book their place in the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup after an enthralling Round of 16 encounter.

The South American giants appeared to be heading for a shock elimination after Egypt established a two-goal advantage through strikes from Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Ziko. Lionel Messi’s missed penalty earlier in the contest further strengthened Egypt’s hopes of pulling off one of the tournament’s biggest upsets.

With time running out, Argentina mounted an impressive comeback. Defender Cristian Romero ignited the fightback with a powerful header before Messi redeemed himself by firing home the equaliser, extending his remarkable scoring streak to nine consecutive FIFA World Cup matches. The goal also moved him back to the top of the tournament’s Golden Boot race with eight goals.

Argentina completed the dramatic turnaround in stoppage time when Enzo Fernández found the net, sealing a memorable victory that preserved the holders’ hopes of retaining the World Cup title.

Egypt had impressed throughout the match with disciplined defending and dangerous counter-attacks, putting Argentina under sustained pressure for long periods. Goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir also delivered an outstanding performance, making several crucial saves that frustrated the reigning champions before the late collapse.

The victory sends Argentina into the last eight, where they will face the winner of the Round of 16 clash between Switzerland and Colombia. Lionel Scaloni’s side will now shift their focus to the quarter-finals as they continue their pursuit of consecutive FIFA World Cup titles.