The FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 continues with one of the tournament’s most exciting fixtures as Argentina take on Egypt on 8 July 2026 at 12:00 AM (Malaysia Time) at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
Football fans around the world will be treated to another memorable battle between two of the game’s biggest stars, Lionel Messi and Mohamed Salah. With a place in the quarter-finals at stake, both teams will be aiming to deliver their best performance in what promises to be a thrilling knockout encounter.
Argentina Looking to Build on Dramatic Victory
Argentina enter the match after surviving a dramatic 3-2 win over Cape Verde in the previous round. The defending world champions needed extra time to secure victory, showing their determination and experience under pressure.
However, the demanding contest may have taken its toll on Lionel Scaloni’s squad. Several first-team players picked up knocks during the match, raising concerns ahead of the clash with Egypt.
Defenders Nahuel Molina and Facundo Medina, along with midfielder Enzo Fernández, were all forced off due to injuries and have not fully recovered in training. Winger Nicolás González is also a doubt after suffering an ankle sprain.
Despite the injury concerns, Argentina remain confident thanks to the leadership and brilliance of Lionel Messi. The legendary captain continues to break FIFA World Cup records and has once again proven why he remains one of the tournament’s most influential players.
Egypt Ready to Challenge the Defending Champions
Egypt booked their place in the Round of 16 after a hard-fought victory over Australia, eventually winning through a penalty shootout following an intense contest.
While the Pharaohs celebrated qualification, they may also have injury concerns. Left-back Karim Hafez was substituted in the 80th minute, with reports suggesting he was struggling with fatigue, although some sources believe he suffered a minor hamstring injury. His fitness will likely be assessed before kickoff.
Egypt’s hopes will once again rest on captain Mohamed Salah, whose pace, creativity, and finishing ability could prove decisive against one of the tournament favourites. Alongside Omar Marmoush, Salah will lead an attack capable of causing problems for Argentina’s defence.
Predicted Lineups
Argentina (4-3-3): Emiliano Martínez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Facundo Medina; Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister; Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martínez, Thiago Almada.
Egypt (4-4-2): Mostafa Shobeir; Mohamed Hany, Ahmed Fathy, Ibrahim, Rabia; Emam Ashour, Hamdi Lasheen, Ateya, Ziko; Mohamed Salah, Omar Marmoush.
Match Prediction
This Round of 16 clash has all the ingredients for an entertaining contest. Argentina possess greater experience in knockout football and have consistently performed on the biggest stage, while Egypt have shown resilience and determination throughout the tournament.
If Messi can find space in the final third and Argentina’s midfield controls possession, the defending champions should have enough quality to advance. However, Egypt’s disciplined defensive structure and the attacking threat of Salah mean Argentina cannot afford to lose concentration.
Predicted Score: Argentina 2-1 Egypt
A victory would send Argentina into the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals, while Egypt will be hoping to produce one of the tournament’s biggest upsets and continue their remarkable World Cup journey.
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