The 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 concludes today as defending champions Argentina take on Egypt at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with a quarterfinal spot on the line.
The headline matchup pits two of the game’s biggest icons against each other, Lionel Messi and Mohammed Salah.
Lionel Messi, 39, continues to lead Argentina’s attack and enters the game having scored 7 of Argentina’s 11 goals at the tournament.
He also recently broke the all-time men’s World Cup scoring record with 20 goals and has now scored in eight straight World Cup matches.
For Egypt, Salah returns to the starting lineup after recovering from a hamstring strain. He was instrumental in Egypt’s Round of 32 win and remains the Pharaohs’ main attacking threat alongside Trezeguet.
*How both teams got here*
Argentina come in as heavy favorites. Lionel Scaloni’s side has won all four games so far and looks like a strong contender to defend the title. But their last match was a scare.
They needed extra time and an own goal to edge Cape Verde 3-2 in the Round of 32. In the group stage they beat Algeria 3-0, Austria 2-0, and Jordan 3-1.
Egypt are writing their own history. The win over Australia on penalties after a 1-1 draw marked the first time the Pharaohs have reached the World Cup knockout stage, let alone won a knockout game. They sit at 2-2-0 in the tournament.
Midfielder Leandro Paredes warned against complacency after the Cape Verde match. “The lesson is that there will not be any easy game, as will happen with Egypt,” he said.
*Tactical outlook*
Argentina are expected to dominate possession with Messi, Julian Alvarez, and a midfield of Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez and Paredes pulling the strings. The backline will likely feature Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez.
Egypt are expected to sit deep and look to counter. Their attack has been limited, ranking third-lowest among the remaining teams with 5.1 expected goals, so they will rely on Salah’s pace and moments of quality to hurt Argentina on the break.
*History and stakes*
Argentina have won their last eight World Cup games against African nations. No team has ever won three games against African opposition in a single World Cup. For Egypt, this run is already the best in the country’s World Cup history.
The winner will advance to face either Switzerland or Colombia in the quarterfinals on July 11 in Kansas City.
*What to watch*
Bookmakers list Argentina at -275 to win in regulation, with the draw at +375 and Egypt at +725. The over/under is set at 2.5 goals. If the game is tied after 90 minutes it will go to 30 minutes of extra time, followed by penalties if needed.
Argentina have the experience, depth and the best player in the world in form. But after a shaky last round, they know Egypt will not make it easy. Egypt have belief, organization, and Salah, who can change any game.
Argentina vs Egypt kicks off at noon ET in Atlanta.