Argentina came within minutes of one of the biggest humiliations in World Cup history before Lionel Messi dragged the defending champions back from the dead in a chaotic 3-2 win over Egypt.
Egypt looked set to dump the holders out after Yasser Ibrahim and Zico fired them into a shock 2-0 lead, leaving Argentina staring at disaster.
Messi had earlier missed a first-half penalty, adding to the tension as Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir produced a heroic performance to frustrate the world champions.
But Argentina’s nightmare turned into a miracle in the closing minutes.
Cristian Romero gave them hope with a header from Messi’s cross before the Argentina captain completed his redemption, smashing in a powerful half-volley to make it 2-2.
Then, deep into stoppage time, Enzo Fernandez broke Egyptian hearts with a brilliant header from Lautaro Martinez’s cross to complete a stunning comeback.
The match was not without controversy.
Egypt had earlier seen a length-of-the-pitch goal ruled out after VAR spotted a foul in the build-up, a decision that sparked fury from the Egyptian bench and supporters.
Mohamed Salah also appealed for a penalty late in the game, but play continued and Argentina punished Egypt almost immediately at the other end.
The final whistle brought wild Argentine celebrations and Egyptian anger, with the referee forced to issue several cards during a heated ending.
For Egypt, it was heartbreak after coming so close to a historic World Cup upset.
For Argentina, it was another night of Messi magic, chaos and survival — the kind of escape only champions seem to find.
