The World Cup 2026 quarter-final line-up is complete after two dramatic last-16 ties on Tuesday, July 7, with defending champions Argentina producing a remarkable late comeback against Egypt before Switzerland edged Colombia on penalties.
Argentina looked set for a shock exit after falling two goals behind, but Lionel Messi inspired an incredible fightback before Enzo Fernandez headed in a stoppage-time winner to seal a 3-2 victory.
Meanwhile, Switzerland booked their place after a tense goalless draw with Colombia ended in a 4-3 penalty shoot-out victory. They will now face the holders in the quarter-finals.
Argentina produce unforgettable comeback to stun Egypt
Argentina kept their World Cup defence alive after recovering from 2-0 down to beat Egypt 3-2 in one of the matches of the tournament.
Lionel Scaloni’s side were second best for much of the contest and even saw Messi miss an early penalty, with Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir making an excellent save.
Egypt took the lead after 15 minutes when Yasser Ibrahim headed home from a corner before Mostafa Zico doubled the advantage midway through the second half following a swift counter-attack.
Argentina looked to be heading out, but the momentum changed in the closing stages.
Cristian Romero gave the holders hope in the 79th minute when he powered home Messi’s cross before the Argentina captain redeemed himself four minutes later, firing in the equaliser after the ball broke kindly inside the area.
With extra time looming, Argentina completed an extraordinary turnaround in stoppage time.
Lautaro Martinez delivered a cross into the box, and Enzo Fernandez rose highest to head beyond Shobeir and spark wild celebrations.
The dramatic victory sends Argentina into the quarter-finals, where they will face Switzerland as they continue their bid to retain the World Cup.
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Switzerland hold their nerve from the spot against Colombia
Switzerland secured the final quarter-final place after defeating Colombia 4-3 on penalties following a hard-fought 0-0 draw in Vancouver.
Neither side was able to find a breakthrough during 120 minutes in a match that produced few clear-cut chances.
Switzerland came closest before the break when Breel Embolo’s effort was ruled out for offside, while Colombia struggled to test Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel despite enjoying periods of possession.
As the game wore on, both teams became increasingly cautious, with neither wanting to make the mistake that would end their World Cup campaign.
The contest was eventually decided from the penalty spot.
Both sides converted their opening kicks before Colombia blinked first, allowing Switzerland to seize control.
Ruben Vargas, who had been an injury doubt before the match, stepped up to convert the decisive penalty and send Murat Yakin’s side through with a 4-3 shoot-out victory.
Switzerland will now face Argentina in the quarter-finals after the holders’ dramatic comeback win over Egypt earlier in the day.
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Michael Davey 
Simon Wilkes