Messi carries the champions, but the 'Pharaohs' have already made history: prediction for Argentina vs Egypt - 07.07.2026
The round of 16 clash at the World Cup between Argentina and Egypt will take place on July 7, 2026, with the main storyline centering on the reigning champions' footballing prowess and a team making its first-ever appearance in the tournament's knockout stage. Here’s a prediction for this showdown, offering strong prospects for success.
Argentina: Scaloni's side passes a nerve-wracking test of resilience
Argentina powered through the group stage: thrashing Algeria 3-0, comfortably dispatching Austria 2-0, and then defeating Jordan 3-1 - even with Lionel Messi starting on the bench. But the meeting with Cape Verde exposed some weaknesses: the favorites only sealed the win in extra time - 3-2.
The main concern for Lionel Scaloni is the defensive flanks. Facundo Medina and Nahuel Molina failed to impress both going forward and without the ball, with Medina also picking up an injury. Changes are likely: Nicolás Tagliafico could start on the left, Gonzalo Montiel on the right, and in attack, Nicolás González may get his chance in place of Thiago Almada.
Egypt: a historic playoff run built on patience
Egypt remains unbeaten at the tournament. Hossam Hassan’s squad started with a draw against Belgium, came from behind to beat New Zealand, and held on for the needed result against Iran to progress from the group in second place. In the round of 16, the 'Pharaohs' overcame Australia on penalties, converting all their spot-kicks.
Egypt’s biggest issue is the left side of their defense. Karim Hafez picked up an injury against Australia, while Ahmed Fattouh is already sidelined. As a result, Egypt may switch to three central defenders for the first time in the tournament, with Hamdi Fathi possibly dropping from midfield into the back line.
Probable lineups
- Argentina: Martínez, Montiel, Romero, Martínez, Tagliafico, Fernández, Mac Allister, González, De Paul, Martínez, Messi.
- Egypt: Shobeir, Rabia, Fathi, Ibrahim, Hany, Lashin, Attia, Hassan, Ashour, Salah, Marmoush.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Lionel Messi has already scored seven goals at the tournament, leading the Golden Boot race.
- Egypt have scored in every match at this World Cup and remain unbeaten.
- In six of Argentina’s last eleven official matches and seven of Egypt’s last eleven, fewer than three goals have been scored.
Class vs history: prediction for Argentina vs Egypt
Argentina remain clear favorites, but the Cape Verde match was a wake-up call for Scaloni. The 'Albiceleste' defense showed cracks, and their reliance on Messi is becoming ever more apparent: Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez have only managed one penalty goal between them.
Egypt can cause problems through Salah, Marmoush, and the energy of their attacking midfielders, but it may not be enough for an upset. The 'Pharaohs' will likely look to stay compact and capitalize on rare chances, but Messi’s individual brilliance and Argentina’s overall quality should decide the outcome.
