Argentina erased a 2-0 deficit against Egypt in the World Cup round of 16, scoring three times in the final 11 minutes plus extra time to win 3-2. The defending champions trailed entering the 79th minute before Lionel Messi assisted Cristian Romero's header to spark the rally. Four minutes later, Messi leveled the match with a composed finish, then Lisandro Martínez found Enzo Fernández for the winner in the 101st minute. It marked Argentina's second consecutive 3-2 survival act after escaping Cape Verde in the previous round.

The comeback showcased Argentina's tournament resilience but exposed defensive fragility. Egypt dominated possession for long stretches and punished a high line twice before fatigue set in. Messi's direct involvement in two goals reinforced his influence at 39, while Fernández's late run into the box rewarded Martínez's vision from deep.

The sports world reacted in real time. Patrick Mahomes posted "Wowwwwwww" while Jalen Brunson and Tom Brady compared the turnaround to historic collapses. Josh Hart declared the GOAT debate settled. NFL stars George Kittle and Budda Baker praised the never-quit mentality, and Precious Achiuwa noted the tournament's relentless drama.

Argentina advances to face a quarterfinal opponent with three days' rest, but the pattern of slow starts against inferior opposition cannot persist. The back line's susceptibility to counterattacks will be exploited by elite finishing. Scaloni must decide whether to trust the same XI or rotate for freshness against stronger competition.