Enzo Fernandez Ends His Goal Drought, Lionel Scaloni Was Emotional After Argentina Eliminated Egypt

Argentina secured their place in the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals following a dramatic comeback 3-2 victory over Egypt in the Round of 16. Enzo Fernandez expressed relief and joy at finally ending his long wait to score again at the World Cup, while head coach Lionel Scaloni was left completely speechless at the fight shown by his squad.

Enzo Fernandez's headed goal deep into stoppage time sealed Argentina's win after the side had fallen two goals behind. This moment carried special weight for the Chelsea midfielder, as it was his first World Cup goal since the 2022 tournament in Qatar.

Enzo admitted he had waited an extremely long time to get his name back on the scoresheet at football's most prestigious global competition.

"I have been waiting for this goal for almost three years, ever since the Qatar World Cup. To get to live a moment like this? Honestly I thank God, I feel so lucky," Enzo stated.

This goal against Egypt marks Enzo's second World Cup goal for the Argentina senior national team. His first came against Mexico during the group stage of the 2022 Qatar World Cup.

However Enzo confirmed this latest goal holds far greater significance. Alongside securing the match win, this strike sent the defending world champions through to the quarter finals after overturning an 0-2 deficit.

The 25-year-old midfielder emphasised that Argentina's comeback was only possible thanks to the collective fighting spirit of every single person in the squad.

"We always stand together. Thank you to my teammates, the coaching staff, everyone supporting us here at the stadium, and every single Argentine back home. Now we take one more step forward," Enzo added.

This dramatic victory also left a deep emotional mark on Lionel Scaloni. After the final whistle, the coach who delivered Argentina's 2022 World Cup title was visibly overcome, stating he could not properly put his feelings into words.

"I can't even look up right now, I'm sorry. I am just so overwhelmed with emotion at this moment," Scaloni told reporters post-match.

Argentina were forced to battle relentlessly for the full 90 minutes against a fierce, disciplined Egypt side. The Albiceleste found themselves two goals down after finishes from Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Ziko, with Egypt holding their lead right into the final 10 minutes of regular time.

But champion mentality prevailed. Cristian Romero kickstarted Argentina's revival before Lionel Messi levelled the scoreline. Just as the match appeared certain to head to extra time, Enzo Fernandez emerged as the match-winning hero.

Scaloni could only offer brief, quiet praise for his players, who he said had displayed extraordinary character under impossible pressure.

"This group of players is something incredible. That's all, I need to go now," Scaloni said before leaving the interview area.

Victory over Egypt confirms Argentina's spot in the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals. In the last eight, the Albiceleste will face Switzerland, who advanced past Colombia via a dramatic penalty shootout.