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· 6 July 2026

Lionel Messi and the reigning world champions return to centre stage on Tuesday as Argentina face Egypt in one of the most captivating Round of 16 matchups of the tournament — a clash between the defending titleholders and a nation eager to script its own history.

Argentina’s journey to the knockout rounds was smoother than the final group-stage scoreline might suggest, but their Round of 32 tie brought them a real scare. Cabo Verde, competing in their maiden World Cup, pushed La Albiceleste to the limit before an own goal in the 111th minute sealed a dramatic 3-2 victory in extra time. The contest served as a reminder that Lionel Scaloni’s side, despite their reputation, can be vulnerable when Messi is tightly marked.

For Egypt, the progression has been nothing short of a fairytale. Mohamed Salah’s men reached the knockout phase for the first time in their history, then surpassed that milestone by defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties after a tense 1-1 stalemate. Every step forward from here is unprecedented for the Pharaohs.

The two teams have met just once before — a 2008 friendly that Argentina won 2-0 courtesy of goals from Sergio Agüero and Nicolás Burdisso. With no competitive prior meetings, this fixture marks uncharted territory for both sides.

Egypt enter the game without left-back Ahmed Fatouh and centre-back Mohamed Abdelmoneim, two significant absences that weaken an already stretched defence. Head coach Hossam Hassan is expected to rely on Yasser Ibrahim, Ramy Rabia, and Mohamed Hany, all of whom have featured in every match so far. Karim Hafez will likely replace Fatouh on the left. Midfielder Mohanad Lasheen returns from suspension and is expected to partner Marwan Attia in central midfield, providing additional cover. In attack, Emam Ashour will anchor the creative midfield, while Salah and Omar Marmoush will be the main threats on the flanks. Mostafo Ziko leads the line but has yet to complete a full match in the tournament.

For Argentina, the narrative remains familiar: everything revolves around Messi. His brilliance was once again decisive against Cabo Verde, with a stunning opener followed by a cross that led to the winning goal. Scaloni’s challenge, as always in knockout football, is ensuring the team remains potent even when Messi isn’t directly involved.

On paper, Argentina appear favourites — their experience and quality far outweighing Egypt’s, especially given the African side’s defensive issues. However, Cabo Verde have already shown how to unsettle this Argentine team: quick and direct attacks down the wings. Egypt have the pace and creativity to attempt a similar approach, and with defenders likely focused on Salah and Marmoush, Ashour could exploit the spaces in midfield.

The main risk for Egypt lies in retreating too deep. Cabo Verde’s success came from pressing high and attacking boldly rather than sitting back for the full 90 minutes. Egypt will need a comparable level of courage — they have nothing to lose and the confidence of a side that has already exceeded all expectations.

The winner will advance to the quarterfinals, with a potential semifinal berth on the line in Atlanta on July 15. For Argentina, victory would represent another step toward defending the crown they won in Qatar. For Egypt, it would mark the greatest achievement in their World Cup history, surpassing even their maiden group-stage triumph earlier in the tournament.

• Head-to-head record: 1 meeting (Argentina won 2-0, 2008 friendly)
• Argentina’s knockout consistency: Reached the Round of 16 at every World Cup since 2002
• Egypt milestones: First-ever group-stage win and first-ever knockout win, both achieved this tournament