Egypt and Argentina meet this Tuesday at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium for a Round of 16 match in the 2026 World Cup that promises to be particularly intense.
Both teams dream of reaching the quarter-finals, and the coaches have now revealed their official lineups. On one side, Lionel Scaloni’s Albiceleste relies on its experience and the quality of its attacking players. On the other, Hossam Hassan’s Pharaohs hope to pull off a surprise with solid organization and the presence of Mohamed Salah, their main attacking asset.
For this knockout match, Lionel Scaloni sticks to his principles with a balanced 4-4-2 formation. Argentina will look to control the ball with a midfield capable of dictating the game’s pace while quickly exploiting spaces in front. The world champion team boasts an experienced squad, used to high-stakes matches, and aims to showcase its collective mastery to continue its journey in the tournament.
🚨 𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗜𝗖𝗜𝗔𝗟: Argentina XI in the World Cup Round of 16 vs. Egypt! 🇦🇷💫 pic.twitter.com/aIxxYy8eCa
— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) July 7, 2026
The Argentine attack will be led by the duo of Lionel Messi and Julián Alvarez. The Albiceleste captain will bring his experience, game vision, and ability to make a difference in crucial moments. Alongside him, Julián Alvarez will focus on making runs in behind and putting pressure on the opposing defense. Behind them, Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, and Leandro Paredes will be responsible for balancing recovery and offensive play.
In goal, Emiliano Martínez will maintain his role as the last line of defense. In front of him, Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, and Nicolás Tagliafico will form a defense known for its aggression and quality in duels. However, this backline must stay alert to the speed and creativity of the Egyptian attackers, who can capitalize on any mistakes during transitions.
On the other side, Hossam Hassan has opted for a 4-3-3 setup to provide more width and offensive options. The Pharaohs rely on a disciplined team, capable of defending as a unit before quickly transitioning forward. The coach hopes that this organization will contain Argentina’s many attacking threats while exploiting the spaces left by the opponent.
🚨 𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗜𝗖𝗜𝗔𝗟: Egypt XI in the World Cup Round of 16 vs. Argentina! 🇪🇬💫 pic.twitter.com/PdMLDgwwgh
— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) July 7, 2026
The midfield will consist of Emam Ashour, Mohanad Lasheen, and Marwan Attia. Their mission will be crucial to withstand the technical quality of the Argentines and quickly feed the forwards. Up front, Mohamed Salah will naturally be the most anticipated player. The Egyptian winger will be joined by Mostafa Zico and Haissem Hassan to try and shake up the South American defense with their speed and mobility.
In goal, Mostafa Shobeir will have the heavy task of repelling Argentine attacks. The defense will include Mohamed Hany, Yasser Ibrahim, Ramy Rabia, and Karim Hafez. This Round of 16 clash promises an exciting showdown between two teams with clear ambitions. Argentina enters as the favorite, but Egypt has the tools to challenge the Albiceleste. Kick-off is approaching, and all eyes will be on this duel between Lionel Messi and Mohamed Salah, two of the biggest stars in world football.
