Egypt Left Heartbroken as Argentina Snatch Late Win

With 12 minutes of normal time remaining, Egypt stood on the brink of the greatest World Cup result in their history. The Pharaohs led reigning world champions Argentina 2-0 in Atlanta, with a first-ever quarter-final place within touching distance for the football-mad nation.

Then it all unravelled. Cristian Romero pulled a goal back in the 79th minute, and suddenly Egypt were hanging on. Four minutes later, who else but Lionel Messi levelled the tie at 2-2, leaving the Egyptians visibly rattled. Enzo Fernandez completed the stunning turnaround with a header in the second minute of stoppage time.

Egypt were not only out but furious. VAR had earlier ruled out a second goal from Mostafa Zico, penalising Marwan Attia for a slight step on Lisandro Martinez in the build-up, when Egypt led 1-0. They were also convinced Mohamed Salah had been fouled in the Argentine box moments before the winning goal.

"There is so much inconsistency at the moment with VAR," Egyptian football expert Ahmad Yousef told the BBC, sympathising with the anger over a marginal foul flagged so far back in the move.

At full time, Egyptian players sank to the turf in disbelief. Salah swapped shirts with former Liverpool team-mate Alexis Mac Allister before trudging off, head bowed.