Will Lionel Messi Play in Argentina vs Egypt FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 Match?

Football icon Lionel Messi is set to lead defending champions Argentina into battle against a historic Egypt side in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16. The highly anticipated clash is scheduled for today, Tuesday, July 7, at Atlanta Stadium, with kick-off at 12:00 PM ET (16:00 GMT).

Speculation surrounding the 39-year-old captain's fitness was rife after Argentina's demanding 3-2 extra-time victory over Cape Verde in the Round of 32. However, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has unequivocally confirmed Messi's availability, stating, "Messi is fine, and he did not complain of any pain. He played a full 120 minutes, and proved his readiness despite his age." Lionel Messi was born on June 24, 1987, making him 39 years old on July 7, 2026. Cristiano Ronaldo Breaks Down In Tears as Portugal's FIFA World Cup 2026 Dream Ends Against Spain.

Lionel Messi's Enduring Brilliance

Messi's involvement in the 2026 World Cup has been a subject of keen interest, with the superstar himself expressing his desire to participate based on his physical condition. His performance in the Round of 32 was a testament to his enduring quality, where he opened the scoring against Cape Verde. This goal further cemented his legacy, taking his total World Cup goal tally to 20, making him the competition's all-time leading scorer. He also became the first player in history to score in eight consecutive FIFA World Cup games and made his 30th World Cup appearance, another unprecedented feat.

Road to the Round of 16

Argentina, the reigning champions, navigated their group stage with a perfect record in Group J, securing impressive victories: a 3-0 win over Algeria, followed by 2-0 against Austria, and a 3-1 triumph over Jordan. Their Round of 32 encounter against debutants Cape Verde proved a tougher test, requiring extra time for a 3-2 victory. Lamine Yamal Hugs Tearful Cristiano Ronaldo After Spain Knocks Portugal Out of World Cup (Watch Video).

Egypt, making history by reaching the Round of 16 for the first time, have shown resilience throughout the tournament. They finished second in Group G with five points, remaining undefeated with one win and two draws. Their qualification to this stage came after a tense 4-2 penalty shootout victory over Australia, following a 1-1 draw in regulation time in the Round of 32.

With Messi confirmed to play, all eyes will be on Atlanta as Argentina aims to continue its title defense against an Egyptian side determined to extend its dream run in the tournament. The stage is set for a thrilling knockout encounter.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 07, 2026 11:12 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).