Holders Argentina survived a significant scare to defeat Egypt 3-2 in the World Cup last 16 and progress to the quarterfinals.
Argentina fell behind 2-0 with goals from Egypt’s Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Ziko, and a penalty save against Lionel Messi put the Pharaohs on the brink of a historic win in Atlanta. However, Cristian Romero’s header ignited a late resurgence as Argentina scored three goals in the final 11 minutes plus stoppage time. Then Fernandez completed the comeback with a powerful header from Lautaro Martinez’s cross.
Egypt expressed frustration over several controversial refereeing decisions, including a disallowed goal early in the second half and a red card shown to a member of their coaching staff following Argentina’s winning goal.
The match also drew attention off the field, with criticism directed at FIFA and former US President Trump amid a separate controversy involving Balogun’s red card, which FIFA defended despite Trump calling the referee “a bit suspect.”
Argentina’s dramatic victory prolongs Lionel Messi’s World Cup career and keeps the holders in contention for the title.
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