Atlanta [US], July 7: Egypt will look to extend their historic FIFA World Cup 2026 run when they face reigning champions Argentina in their Round of 16 clash on Tuesday.
The meeting brings together two of the most decorated nations in their respective continents, with 16-time Copa America winners Argentina standing between seven-time CAF Africa Cup of Nations champions Egypt and a place in the quarter-finals.
Egypt were pushed all the way by Australia before prevailing 4-2 on penalties following a tense 1-1 draw, a result that carried the Pharaohs into the Round of 16 for the first time in their history.
Having already recorded their first-ever FIFA World Cup win during the group stage, Egypt will now attempt to break new ground once again against an Argentina side far more accustomed to this level of the competition.
Organized, disciplined and increasingly confident, they have shown resilience throughout their campaign and will need every bit of that resolve against an Argentina side capable of controlling possession and punishing even the smallest defensive lapse.
The African side's task will be to stay compact, frustrate Argentina's rhythm and make the most of their moments on the counter, particularly with the pressure likely to be on the defending champions to dictate the contest.
Argentina arrived in the knockout stage as Group K winners after three straight victories but the South Americans were given a major scare in the Round of 32 by debutants Cabo Verde, needing a late own goal in extra-time to edge through 3-2.
For Argentina, the Round of 16 is familiar territory, with the South American giants having reached this stage of every edition since 2006. Their pedigree, experience and knockout know-how make them formidable opponents but the narrow escape against Cabo Verde also showed that the defending champions can be stretched when placed under pressure.
Argentina will start as favourites but Egypt have already made history once at this tournament. Another disciplined and fearless performance could give the African side the chance to make it again.
While both teams had to dig deep to reach this stage, neither has suffered defeat so far. That unbeaten record will end for one of them in Atlanta, where Egypt's dream of a first FIFA World Cup quarter-final faces its sternest examination yet.
Source: Qatar Tribune
