This combination of file photo created on July 5, 2026, shows Egypt's forward #10 Mohamed Salah in Agadir on January 5, 2026 (L); and Argentina's forward #10 Lionel Messi in Kansas City on June 16, 2026. Photo: FRANCK FIFE / AFP
Argentina enter the Round of 16 as favourites, but Egypt have already shown they are capable of frustrating stronger opponents and making history.
Messi vs. Salah
The headline duel features Lionel Messi against Mohamed Salah. Messi remains Argentina’s attacking heartbeat, while Salah has inspired Egypt’s deepest-ever World Cup run and has been directly involved in several of their key goals.
Argentina’s defence under scrutiny
