FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina vs Egyp Preview, Team News, Predicted Lineups & Prediction
FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina vs Egypt Preview, Team News, Predicted Lineups, Prediction & Where to Watch
Defending champions Argentina continue their quest to retain the FIFA World Cup trophy when they face Egypt in an exciting Round of 16 encounter. Lionel Scaloni's side remain among the tournament favourites, while Egypt have already created history by reaching the knockout stages and will be aiming to produce one of the biggest upsets of the competition.
With global superstars Lionel Messi and Mohamed Salah set to share the spotlight, football fans can expect a thrilling battle between two nations chasing a place in the quarter-finals.
Argentina vs Egypt Match Preview
Argentina enter the Round of 16 after surviving one of the most dramatic matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The reigning world champions edged past Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time, with an unfortunate own goal from Diony Borges in the 111th minute proving to be the decisive moment.
Despite twice surrendering the lead, Lionel Scaloni's men once again demonstrated the resilience that has defined their recent success. Argentina have now won 10 of their last 12 FIFA World Cup knockout matches that extended beyond 90 minutes, underlining their ability to perform under immense pressure.
La Albiceleste have also been in sensational form overall, winning eight consecutive matches in all competitions while scoring at least two goals in every victory. Their attacking unit has netted 11 goals in four World Cup matches, with captain Lionel Messi continuing to lead by example.
The reigning champions possess one of the tournament's most balanced squads, combining defensive solidity with world-class creativity and clinical finishing in the final third.
Egypt have already exceeded expectations by reaching the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time in the modern era.
Head coach Hossam Hassan has built a disciplined and resilient side capable of frustrating stronger opponents. The Pharaohs booked their place in the Round of 16 after defeating Australia in a dramatic penalty shootout following a hard-fought 120-minute contest.
Captain Mohamed Salah held his nerve by converting a stunning Panenka penalty, helping Egypt secure one of the biggest victories in the nation's football history.
However, Egypt face a significantly tougher challenge against Argentina. Although their defensive organisation has impressed throughout the tournament, they have now conceded goals in six consecutive matches. Any defensive mistakes against the reigning world champions could prove costly.
Their only previous meeting against Argentina came in an international friendly in 2008, where Egypt suffered a 2-0 defeat. Lionel Messi missed that match through injury, making this the first competitive showdown between Messi and Salah on the World Cup stage.
Argentina Team News
Argentina may make a few changes following their physically demanding extra-time victory over Cape Verde.
Defender Facundo Medina experienced cramp during the previous match but is expected to recover in time. Nahuel Molina and Enzo Fernandez are also being monitored after heavy workloads, while Nicolas Tagliafico could return to the starting lineup if Lionel Scaloni decides to rotate.
Winger Nico Gonzalez remains doubtful after sustaining an ankle injury earlier in the tournament.
Meanwhile, Lionel Messi continues to break records. The Argentina captain became the first player to score seven goals across two different FIFA World Cup tournaments while also matching the all-time record for goal involvements in World Cup knockout matches.
Egypt Team News
Egypt have several defensive injury concerns ahead of this crucial knockout fixture.
Left-back Karim Hafez picked up a knock against Australia but has returned to full training and is expected to start.
Ahmed Fatouh remains doubtful due to a thigh injury, while centre-back Mohamed Abdelmonem faces a late fitness assessment after missing the previous match with an ankle problem.
There is positive news for Hossam Hassan as experienced midfielder Mohanad Lasheen returns after serving a one-match suspension.
Predicted Lineups
Argentina Predicted XI (4-3-3)
Emiliano Martinez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi, Nicolas Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister; Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez, Lautaro Martinez.
Egypt Predicted XI (4-2-3-1)
Mohamed El Shenawy; Mohamed Hany, Mohamed Abdelmonem, Rami Rabia, Karim Hafez; Hamdi Fathi, Mohanad Lasheen; Mostafa Mohamed, Trezeguet, Omar Marmoush; Mohamed Salah.
Key Players to Watch
Lionel Messi (Argentina)
The legendary captain remains the heartbeat of Argentina's attack. His vision, creativity, passing range and clinical finishing continue to make him one of the most influential players in world football. Messi has consistently delivered on the biggest stage and will once again be expected to inspire the defending champions.
Mohamed Salah (Egypt)
Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah carries Egypt's attacking hopes. His pace, intelligent movement and ability to produce moments of brilliance on the counterattack make him the Pharaohs' biggest weapon. If Egypt are to pull off a major upset, Salah will almost certainly have to produce a world-class performance.
Argentina vs Egypt Head-to-Head Record
Matches Played: 1
Argentina Wins: 1
Egypt Wins: 0
Draws: 0
Argentina have won the only previous meeting between the two nations, claiming a 2-0 victory in an international friendly in 2008.
Argentina vs Egypt Prediction
Egypt have enjoyed a remarkable FIFA World Cup campaign and deserve enormous credit for reaching the Round of 16. Their defensive organisation and team spirit have helped them overcome several difficult challenges.
However, facing the reigning world champions is a completely different test.
Argentina possess greater experience, superior squad depth and arguably the strongest attack remaining in the tournament. With Lionel Messi orchestrating play alongside Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez, La Albiceleste should create enough opportunities to secure victory.
Egypt are likely to threaten through Mohamed Salah on the counterattack, but Argentina's quality and knockout experience should ultimately prove decisive.
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