By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
Defending champions Argentina produced one of the most dramatic comebacks of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, overturning a two-goal deficit to defeat Egypt 3-2 and book a place in the quarter-finals, while Switzerland advanced after a tense penalty shootout victory over Colombia.
Egypt stunned the South Americans by taking a deserved 2-0 lead through Yasser Ibrahim in the 34th minute before Mostafa Zico doubled the advantage in the 68th minute.
Argentina’s hopes appeared to be fading, but the reigning champions mounted a remarkable late fightback. Cristian Romero sparked the revival with a goal in the 79th minute before Lionel Messi restored parity four minutes later.
Enzo Fernández completed the stunning turnaround with a stoppage-time winner, sealing a memorable victory and keeping Argentina’s title defence alive.
The dramatic encounter ended amid controversy as Egypt protested several refereeing decisions, particularly in the build-up to Argentina’s winning goal. Tempers flared after the final whistle, with members of Egypt’s coaching staff sanctioned following heated exchanges with match officials.
In the day’s other Round of 16 clash, Switzerland and Colombia battled to a goalless draw after 120 minutes of intense action. With neither side able to find a breakthrough, the contest was decided by penalties, where Switzerland prevailed 4-3 to secure the final quarter-final berth.
The results complete the quarter-final line-up, with France set to face Morocco, Spain taking on Belgium, Norway meeting England, while Argentina will square off against Switzerland for a place in the semi-finals.
