Holders Argentina produced a dramatic late comeback to beat Egypt 3-2 in Atlanta and book their place in the World Cup quarter-finals, keeping Lionel Messi's hopes of another global title alive.

The reigning champions looked to be heading for a shock exit after Egypt established a deserved two-goal lead, but three goals from the 79th minute onwards completed a stunning turnaround.

Egypt made the brighter start and were rewarded after 15 minutes when Yasser Ibrahim rose above Lisandro Martínez to head Marwan Attia's cross into the far corner.

Argentina had the perfect opportunity to respond almost immediately after Nicolás Tagliafico was brought down inside the penalty area. However, Lionel Messi endured more frustration from the spot as Mostafa Shobeir dived low to his left to produce an excellent save.

The Al Ahly goalkeeper continued to frustrate the holders, making a string of superb stops to preserve Egypt's advantage as Argentina struggled to find their rhythm.

Egypt thought they had doubled their lead early in the second half following a devastating counter-attack finished by Mostafa Ziko, only for a lengthy VAR review to rule the goal out for a foul in the build-up.

The setback did little to knock Egypt's confidence. Just moments later they struck again, with Mohamed Salah leading another rapid break before Haissem Hassan's cross was swept home by Ziko to leave Argentina staring at elimination.

Lionel Scaloni's side looked short of answers, but Cristian Romero sparked the revival with 11 minutes remaining, climbing highest to head beyond Shobeir and halve the deficit.

Momentum quickly swung in Argentina's favour and Messi finally found his moment of redemption four minutes later. Gonzalo Montiel's cut-back found the captain inside the area and his fierce strike clipped the crossbar on its way in, levelling the contest and sending the majority of the crowd into raptures.

With extra time looming, Argentina completed the most unlikely of recoveries deep into stoppage time. Lautaro Martínez delivered an inviting cross from the right and Enzo Fernández timed his run perfectly to power a header beyond Shobeir and seal a famous victory.

The final whistle sparked emotional celebrations among the Argentina players, with Messi visibly overcome after helping his side escape another major scare.

Egypt, meanwhile, were left heartbroken after an outstanding performance that had them within touching distance of one of the greatest results in their history. They also had a member of their coaching staff sent off following the dramatic conclusion.

Argentina will now face either Switzerland or Colombia in Saturday's quarter-final in Kansas.

Live Commentary:

You couldn't write it. Enzo Fernandez comes up with a winner in stoppage-time to send Argentina through to the quarter-finals!

There it is. Lionel Messi saves the day once again for Argentina with a record-extending 21st FIFA World Cup goal.

Cristian Romero reduces the deficit, and there's still plenty of time left on the clock for Argentina to score an equaliser...

Incredible! Mostafa Ziko doubles Egypt's lead and a famous victory is well within reach now.

Egypt lead in Atlanta courtesy of a brilliant header from Yasser Ibrahim! What a time to score your second-ever international goal against the reigning champions.

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