Preview: Argentina vs Egypt | Latest news, line-ups, absences (07/07/2026)
Preview, team news, head-to-head, probable line-ups and where to watch Argentina vs Egypt in the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup
Argentina and Egypt meet in Houston on Tuesday in the 2026 World Cup round of 16, with Lionel Scaloni‘s side aiming to move one step closer to defending their world title.
The reigning champions reached this stage after overcoming Cape Verde 3-2 in an entertaining Round of 32 encounter. Argentina were made to work hard but ultimately progressed in extra time thanks to their superiority from set pieces and overall quality in the final third, continuing an unbeaten run that has stretched throughout the tournament.
Egypt, meanwhile, eliminated Australia on penalties following a dramatic 1-1 draw. Hossam Hassan‘s side showed outstanding resilience before holding their nerve in the shootout to reach the last 16.
Argentina are strong favourites according to the latest predictions, but Egypt have already demonstrated they are capable of frustrating higher-ranked opponents.
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Argentina have looked dangerous throughout the tournament, scoring freely while continuing to dominate possession under Scaloni. Their victory over Cape Verde was their toughest test so far, exposing occasional defensive vulnerabilities but also underlining the attacking depth within the squad.
Egypt’s confidence has grown with every match. After progressing from Group G, they defended superbly against Australia before goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir starred in the penalty shootout. Their organisation and work rate remain their greatest strengths heading into another difficult assignment, although they will be hoping that Mohamed Salah can start firing soon.
Argentina
Scaloni is expected to name a side very similar to the one that defeated Cape Verde. Emiliano Martínez remains one of the tournament’s most reliable goalkeepers, while Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez continue their impressive partnership in central defence. Enzo Fernández and Alexis Mac Allister should once again anchor midfield, with either Lautaro Martínez or Julián Álvarez leading the attack. Captain Lionel Messi continues to orchestrate Argentina’s attacking play and appears fully fit heading into the Round of 16.
Egypt
El Hadary is unlikely to make major changes after the historic win over Australia. Mohamed El Shenawy should continue between the posts behind the experienced defensive pairing of Mohamed Abdelmonem and Rami Rabia. Hamdi Fathi provides protection in midfield alongside Marwan Attia, while Mohamed Salah remains Egypt’s primary attacking threat from the right. Mostafa Mohamed is expected to lead the line after another tireless performance in the previous round. There are no major new injury concerns reported in the Egyptian camp.
Teams H2H: Head-to-head stats
Argentina and Egypt have met only once previously at senior international level.
Their only encounter came in a friendly in 2008, when Argentina claimed a comfortable 2-0 victory.
Previous meetings:
- 26/03/2008: Egypt 0-2 Argentina (International friendly)
Predicted line-ups
Both managers are expected to field their strongest available XIs for this Round of 16 encounter.
Tactical analysis: Can Egypt contain Argentina’s attacking stars?
Egypt know they are unlikely to dominate possession and will instead focus on remaining compact before looking to counter through Salah and Marmoush.
Argentina, meanwhile, are likely to monopolise the ball, patiently probing for openings through Messi’s creativity and the intelligent movement of Lautaro Martínez. Much will depend on whether Egypt can deny space between the lines, where Messi and Mac Allister thrive.
The battle on Argentina’s left could prove decisive. Salah will look to exploit any gaps left by the left back, whether it be Tagliafico or Medina, while it remains to be seen if Almada keeps his place further forward.
If Argentina score early, the game could quickly open up. If Egypt remain level into the second half, belief will continue to grow after their penalty triumph over Australia.
Key players to watch
Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Even in the latter stages of his international career, Messi remains Argentina’s chief creator. His ability to dictate the tempo, unlock compact defences and deliver in decisive moments continues to make him the focal point of Scaloni’s attack.
He is currently on a seven match World Cup scoring streak with his latest goal coming in the win over Cabo Verde. Egypt are expected to defend deep, making Messi’s passing and set-piece delivery particularly important. Messi to score two goals or more represents better value than backing him simply to score.
Mohamed Salah (Egypt)
Egypt’s hopes of another upset rest heavily on Salah’s shoulders. The Liverpool forward remains one of the world’s most dangerous wingers and will relish any opportunity to attack open space behind Argentina’s defence. Even if chances are limited, Salah possesses the quality to punish any lapse in concentration. Backing Salah to register a shot on target may prove more attractive than an outright goalscorer wager given the expected flow of the game.
Where to watch Argentina vs Egypt in the UK and Ireland
Argentina vs Egypt takes place on Tuesday, July 7 at 17:00 BST at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas.
In the United Kingdom, the match will be broadcast on ITV1 and available for streaming on ITVX.
In the Republic of Ireland, the match will be available through RTÉ‘s World Cup coverage and RTÉ Player.
Market insights and betting tips
Argentina are among the strongest favourites of the Round of 16 according to World Cup betting markets. The reigning champions possess significantly greater attacking depth and tournament experience, while Egypt are expected to adopt a disciplined, defence-first approach after their dramatic penalty shootout victory over Australia.
The goals market suggests Argentina should create numerous chances, although Egypt’s defensive organisation could keep the score respectable. Argentina to win and under 3.5 goals appears an appealing combination, while Lautaro Martínez and Lionel Messi remain the standout goalscoring candidates. Egypt have already exceeded expectations by reaching this stage, but overcoming the world champions would require another extraordinary defensive performance.
