Defending champions Argentina produced one of the most dramatic comebacks of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, recovering from two goals down to defeat Egypt 3-2 and secure a place in the quarter-finals, while Switzerland booked the final last-eight spot after edging Colombia 4-3 on penalties following a goalless draw.
Egypt shocked the South Americans by taking a deserved 2-0 lead through Yasser Ibrahim in the first half before Mostafa Zico doubled the advantage in the 68th minute.
With elimination looming, Argentina mounted a remarkable late rally as Cristian Romero pulled one back in the 79th minute, Lionel Messi levelled four minutes later, and Enzo Fernández headed home the stoppage-time winner to complete a stunning turnaround and keep Argentina’s title defence alive.
The match ended in controversy as Egypt protested several refereeing decisions, particularly in the build-up to Argentina’s winning goal. Tempers flared after the final whistle, with members of Egypt’s coaching staff sanctioned following heated exchanges with match officials.
In the other Round of 16 fixture, Switzerland and Colombia failed to break the deadlock after 120 minutes of action before the Swiss prevailed 4-3 in the penalty shootout to seal their place in the quarter-finals.
The results complete the quarter-final line-up, with France facing Morocco, Spain taking on Belgium, Norway meeting England, and Argentina set to play Switzerland for a place in the semi-finals.
By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
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