Ananya Lohia , Mexico - Defending champions Argentina produced one of the greatest comebacks in FIFA World Cup history, fighting back from two goals down to beat Egypt 3-2 in a dramatic Round of 16 clash. Lionel Messi inspired the turnaround as Argentina booked their place in the quarterfinals.

Egypt looked on course for a famous upset after Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Ziko gave the Pharaohs a commanding 2-0 lead. Argentina's hopes suffered another blow when Lionel Messi missed a first-half penalty, leaving the defending champions staring at an early exit. The comeback began in the 78th minute when Cristian Romero headed home from Messi's pinpoint delivery.

Just five minutes later, Messi made amends for his penalty miss by scoring the equaliser, lifting Argentina back into the contest and shifting the momentum completely. Deep into stoppage time, substitute Lautaro Martinez delivered a perfect cross for Enzo Fernandez, who headed home the dramatic winner in the 90+3rd minute to complete an unforgettable comeback.

The emotional victory keeps Argentina's World Cup title defence alive, while Messi's eighth goal of the tournament strengthens his lead in the Golden Boot race as the defending champions march into the quarterfinals.