Argentina may still be unbeaten at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but the reigning champions suddenly look far more vulnerable than they did a week ago. Their dramatic 3-2 extra-time escape against tournament debutants Cabo Verde exposed defensive frailties, physical fatigue and a growing sense that even the favourites can be pushed to the brink. That has transformed Tuesday's last-16 meeting with Egypt from a routine knockout tie into one of the tournament's most compelling contests.
For Egypt, the timing could hardly be better. Mohamed Salah's side arrives in Atlanta buoyed by a historic penalty-shootout victory over Australia and convinced that Argentina's exhausting 120-minute battle has opened a genuine path to one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history. It will also be the first international meeting between Lionel Messi and Salah, two icons carrying the hopes of their nations on football's biggest stage.
