Messi magic turns the tide in New Jersey
Argentina pulled off one of the most memorable comebacks in World Cup history on Wednesday, erasing Egypt's 2-0 halftime lead with three second-half goals at MetLife Stadium. Lionel Messi, playing what is expected to be his final World Cup, scored a spectacular free kick in the 52nd minute before setting up Lautaro Martinez for the equalizer in the 71st. Julian Alvarez completed the turnaround in the 84th minute, sending the Argentine fans into delirium. Egypt's Football Association later filed a formal complaint about VAR usage during the match.
Belgium demolishes US 4-1, ending co-hosts' run
Belgium routed the United States 4-1 in the round of 16, dashing the hopes of the co-hosting nation. Charles De Ketelaere scored twice in the first half as Belgium exposed defensive gaps in the American backline. The match was preceded by controversy after President Trump intervened with FIFA to overturn a red card suspension for US striker Folarin Balogun, which appeared to backfire as Belgium's fans mocked the political involvement. The US performance was widely described as overmatched against the tournament's most in-form team.
Quarterfinal lineup taking shape
France will face Morocco in a rematch of the 2022 semifinal after both teams advanced. England survived a tense penalty shootout against Mexico at Estadio Azteca after a 3-3 draw. Erling Haaland scored twice to send Norway past Brazil, and Switzerland beat Colombia on penalties. The quarterfinals, set to begin this weekend, feature matchups between Argentina and Norway, Belgium and Switzerland, France and Morocco, and England and Portugal.