Argentina’s World Cup Comeback Sets Up Switzerland Quarterfinal

Argentina escaped a daunting knockout run by edging past Egypt 3‑2 in a dramatic Round of 16 clash on July 7, 2026. After Egypt took a 2‑0 lead through Yasser Ibrahim and a VAR‑disallowed Mostafa Zico effort, Cristian Romero struck in the 79th minute to ignite Argentina’s rally. Lionel Messi equalised soon after, and Enzo Fernández sealed the victory deep in stoppage time. The win not only secures a spot in the quarter‑finals but also keeps the defending champions alive in the 2026 World Cup.

The road to this victory was far from easy for La Albiceleste. Earlier in the group stage, Cape Verde forced Argentina into extra time and then struck to make it 2‑2 before the champs found a deciding goal. Egypt’s early dominance left many questioning whether Argentina’s experience would suffice under Lionel Scaloni. Yet a resilient performance from the veterans, especially in midfield with Leandro Paredes earning plaudits, proved decisive. The comeback highlighted a familiar ingredient: never‑say‑die attitude and the ability to produce when the pressure is highest.

Round‑of‑16 drama and key talking points

The match was a masterclass in mental fortitude as Egypt built an early cushion, showcasing their Counter‑attacking threat. Argentina’s first goal came from a well‑timed run by Cristian Romero, who met a cross from the left flank to level the contest. Messi’s goal demonstrated his unerring eye for the final third, while Enzo Fernández’s late strike capped a fluid passing move that involved De Paul and MacAllister. The goal celebration featured emotional scenes, with Messi visibly moved, underscoring the weight of another World Cup run.

Beyond the goals, Scaloni praised Leandro Paredes for his commanding presence in central midfield, a performance that may influence future selections. The coach also hinted that repeating the starting XI could be on the cards, noting the midfield’s ability to dominate possession. Meanwhile, the forward line continues to be a debated slot, with Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez vying for the starting spot since the latter recovered from an ankle issue. Scaloni’s decision will be crucial as the team prepares for a tougher opponent.

Scaloni’s lineup puzzle and Switzerland preview

Speculation swirls that Scaloni may keep the same line‑up that faced Egypt, making it only the fourth repeat of an XI in his 102‑match tenure. The midfield trio of De Paul, Enzo Fernández and Paredes has been solid, while the attack will likely feature Messi and a single forward. The debate between Martinez and Alvarez centers on space creation; Martinez is favored for his ability to drop deeper and link play, but Alvarez’s recent form cannot be ignored. Scaloni hinted both forwards have played together earlier in the tournament, adding flexibility to his selection.

The probable XI against Switzerland on July 11 in Kansas City features Dibu Martinez in goal, flanked by Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez and Nicolás Tagliafico at the back. Midfielders include Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Leandro Paredes and Alexis MacAllister, while Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martinez spearhead the attack. This formation balances defensive solidity with attacking flair, setting up a winnable quarterfinal clash. Switzerland, who upset Portugal earlier, will be a test of Argentina’s depth and tactical versatility.

As the quarterfinal approaches, the focus shifts to maintaining momentum and fitness after a grueling knockout phase. The experience of veterans like Messi andScaloni will be pivotal in deciding whether to stick with a proven formula or introduce fresh options. The winner of this tie will advance to the semi‑finals, where the path could lead to a final against the tournament’s top seed. The World Cup in 2026 continues to deliver high‑stakes drama, and Argentina is ready to write another chapter.

Could Argentina go unchanged from its last World Cup match?

While Argentina didn’t have its best performance against Egypt, Scaloni liked a lot of what he saw on the field.

In fact, there is speculation that Scaloni may utilize the same starting lineup he did against Egypt, repeating the XI for just the fourth time in his 102-match tenure.

“It wouldn’t be absurd to repeat the team, although there also could be a change,” he said Friday night at his pre-match news conference.

Clearly, the possibility of rolling out the same squad, with Leandro Paredes having excelled in midfield in his first start of the tournament and plenty of attacking chances generated, is something Scaloni and his coaching staff are considering.

Who will accompany Lionel Messi in attack?

Lionel Messi will keep his starting spot, having received praise from his manager after the one-goal, one-assist showing in the win over Egypt.

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The one change we are forecasting comes up front, where there has been a consistent battle for playing time between Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez ever since the Atlético Madrid forward recovered from an ankle issue.

While he had a fine game against Egypt, the insertion of Martinez allowed Messi to float more to the right wing, where he looked more comfortable and had more influence on the game. That said, Alvarez also kept his place on the field, and Scaloni pointed out Friday night that the forwards had played together earlier in the World Cup, starting against Jordan when Messi rested for the first hour of the group match.

Still, it seems likely he’ll pick just one. We’re giving the nod to Martinez because of the space he clears, but it would be no surprise if Alvarez is in the XI.

Argentina probable XI vs. Switzerland

Goalkeeper: Dibu Martinez

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Defenders: Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolás Tagliafico

Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, Leandro Paredes, Alexis MacAllister

Forwards: Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martinez

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Argentina lineup today: Projected starting XI for World Cup quarterfinal vs. Switzerland