Argentina vs Egypt - Five player battles to watch out for in FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash

Lionel Messi will have the spotlight on him once again as Argentina take on Egypt at the Atlanta Stadium

Both Argentina and Egypt will head to the Atlanta Stadium after a big scare in their respective round-of-32 matches. The World Champions overcame a tough Cape Verde side in extra time, whereas the Pharaohs beat Australia in penalties in what is turning out to be a very competitive FIFA World Cup.

Expect nothing less in the Argentina vs. Egypt game, and here are five key battles on the pitch that could decide the outcome of this fixture:

5. Lionel Messi vs Ramy Rabia

With seven goals in four games, Lionel Messi is running the show for the Argentine football team in the FIFA World Cup 2026. The top scorer of the tournament has scored in all the games in this edition and is in seventh heaven with respect to his form. Messi has taken 24 shots and has won 21 duels on the pitch.

Egypt’s Ramy Rabia will be tasked with keeping Lionel Messi at bay, and it will not be easy for the central defender. The 33-year-old has won 16 duels and has made 27 defensive contributions in this World Cup. It would have to be seen if Rabia will be able to keep up with Messi’s skills, as this will be the most vital clash on the pitch.

4. Lisandro Martinez vs Mohamed Salah

These two Premier League players know each other well. Lisandro Martinez is coming high on confidence after his goal and assist helped Argentina pip Cape Verde in the round of 32. The central defender has 23 defensive contributions and is a whole other player when he puts on the Argentine shirt.

Mohamed Salah has a goal and two assists to his name for the Egyptian football team in this World Cup. The former Liverpool player will be tricky to handle, as he can play centrally behind the striker or can even drift to the right.

Salah will be at his most lethal on Egyptian counterattacks, and this is something Lisandro Martinez and company will already be looking at during the pre-game preparation.

Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo opens about retirement, criticism, and more ahead of Portugal vs Spain FIFA World Cup 2026 clash

3. Alexis Mac Allister vs Marwan Ateya

Both players are central midfielders and will go up against each other throughout the game. Alexis Mac Allister has a 92.5% successful pass rate and has made 20 defensive contributions to help his side.

Marwan Ateya has also made 20 defensive contributions and has an 87% pass rate in this World Cup. Whoever wins this midfield duel could dictate the pace and possession in this round-of-16 match.

2. Nahuel Molina vs Omar Marmoush

Omar Marmoush has not been at his best for Egypt in this World Cup, with no goals or assists to his name. Nahuel Molina, too, has had an average tournament as Argentina’s right back, as he has made 13 defensive contributions overall in three games.

This could be the game where either Marmoush or Molina could step up for their respective nations. Neither is short in quality, and both will be keen to help their side qualify for the quarterfinals.

1. Nicolás Tagliafico vs Emam Ashour

Facundo Medina picked up an injury against Cape Verde and is doubtful to play against Egypt. Hence, Nicolas Tagliafico could start as Argentina’s left back in this crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 tie. Tagliafico has started just one game in this tournament and has come on twice as a substitute.

Emam Ashour will lead the attack on the right wing for Egypt, and he is riding high on confidence. The 28-year-old was on target against Australia and has 2 goals in the tournament.

Ashour and Salah have swapped positions during this World Cup, which could completely alter the plan for Tagliafico and the rest of the Argentine defenders.

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