The Egyptian national team exited the 2026 World Cup in a heart-wrenching fashion, after surrendering a two-goal lead to Argentina, ultimately losing 3-2 in a thrilling match in the Round of 16.
Yasser Ibrahim opened the scoring for the Pharaohs 15 minutes into the game, and goalkeeper Mostafa Shobier further boosted Egypt's morale by saving a penalty taken by the star Lionel Messi in the 21st minute.
In the second half, Mostafa Ziko doubled Egypt’s lead with a goal in the 67th minute, bringing the Egyptians close to booking a place in the quarter-finals.
However, Argentina made a powerful comeback in the closing minutes. Cristian Romero narrowed the gap in the 79th minute, followed by Messi equalizing in the 83rd minute, bringing the match back to a stalemate.
In stoppage time, Lautaro Martinez led a quick counterattack, sending a precise cross that Enzo Fernandez headed into the net in the 90+3 minute. This dramatic victory secured Argentina's spot in the quarter-finals, where they will face the winner of the Colombia vs. Switzerland match.
Despite their exit, the Egyptian team delivered one of their best performances in the tournament and were mere minutes away from a historic achievement before the expertise of the world champions decided the clash in the final moments.