ATLANTA — The spotlight will firmly be on two of world football’s greatest stars when Argentina take on Egypt in a blockbuster Round of 16 clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Atlanta Stadium this evening.
Kick-off is at 6pm Zimbabwean time, with Lionel Messi’s Argentina aiming to continue their title charge against a determined Egyptian side inspired by Mohamed Salah.
Egypt booked their place in the knockout stages after edging Australia 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw at Dallas Stadium last Friday.
Emam Ashour gave the Pharaohs an early lead in the 13th minute before Mohamed Hany’s unfortunate own goal just before the hour restored parity.
Neither side could find a winner after 120 minutes, forcing a penalty shootout where Australia missed twice through Lucas Herrington and Harry Souttar, allowing Egypt to progress.
Argentina, meanwhile, were pushed to the limit by a resilient Cape Verde in Miami on Saturday before eventually claiming a dramatic 3-2 victory after extra time.
Cape Verde had levelled at 2-2 in the 103rd minute through a stunning curling strike from Sidny Cabral, but Argentina found the decisive goal late in extra time.
Lionel Messi floated in a pinpoint corner which Cristian Romero met with a powerful header to send the South Americans into the last 16.
Egypt unfazed by Messi
Despite Messi’s rich pedigree, Egypt insist they will not be overawed by the Argentine captain.
National team director Ibrahim Hassan believes the Pharaohs have enough quality to compete and pointed to Salah as Egypt’s own global superstar.
“We aren’t focusing on Messi,” Hassan said.
“We tell the players to go out there, play their game, and block out the stature of who they are up against.”
“They might have Messi, but we in Egypt have Mohamed Salah and we have 26 Messis of our own. God willing, victory will be ours.”
Players to watch
Argentina – Lionel Messi
The veteran forward continues to defy age with another outstanding World Cup campaign. The 39-year-old has scored seven goals in four matches and remains Argentina’s biggest attacking weapon heading into tonight’s encounter.
Egypt – Mohamed Salah
Salah has contributed two goals and one assist in four World Cup appearances. Although no longer as prolific as during his peak years, the experienced 34-year-old remains Egypt’s talisman and possesses the quality to decide big matches.
With a place in the quarter-finals at stake, all eyes will be on whether Messi can once again inspire Argentina or if Salah can lead Egypt to one of the biggest upsets of the tournament.
