The FIFA World Cup Round of 16 delivers one of the most anticipated fixtures of the tournament as reigning champions Argentina take on Egypt on Tuesday night. With a place in the quarter-finals at stake, we look at the best bets and a prediction for this encounter.
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It is a match that pits two of world football’s biggest icons against one another, with Lionel Messi and Mohamed Salah set to headline an intriguing contest in Atlanta. While Argentina remain among the favourites to retain their crown, Egypt have quietly become one of the tournament’s surprise packages and will believe they have the attacking quality to spring a major upset.
Betting Preview
Argentina have largely lived up to expectations throughout the tournament, but they have shown signs of vulnerability.
Lionel Scaloni’s side progressed through the group stage before surviving a thrilling 3-2 victory over Cape Verde in the Round of 32. While Messi once again produced moments of brilliance, Argentina looked more open defensively than supporters have become accustomed to over the past few years.
1.64
Argentina vs Egypt
Lionel Messi
Anytime Goalscorer
Odds are subject to change.
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Fortunately for the South Americans, they possess arguably the greatest player in football history.
Messi has once again been the driving force behind Argentina’s campaign, leading both the Golden Boot race and the team’s attacking play. His understanding with Lautaro Martinez and the creativity of Alexis Mac Allister continue to make Argentina one of the most dangerous attacking teams remaining in the competition.
Egypt, meanwhile, have already exceeded many pre-tournament expectations.
5.35
Argentina vs Egypt
Mohamed Salah
Anytime goalscorer
Odds are subject to change.
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The Pharaohs edged Australia on penalties after a disciplined defensive display and now head into the biggest match in their recent footballing history full of confidence. Mohamed Salah remains their inspirational leader, while Omar Marmoush has provided an excellent secondary attacking threat throughout the tournament.
Perhaps Egypt’s greatest weapon will be their ability to attack quickly in transition.
Argentina’s defence has looked vulnerable whenever opponents have broken with pace, something Salah and Marmoush are more than capable of exploiting if given space.
Recent Form & Stats
Argentina
- Defending FIFA World Cup champions.
- Beat Cape Verde 3-2 in the Round of 32.
- Messi has been one of the tournament’s leading goalscorers.
- Unbeaten at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- Chasing consecutive World Cup titles for the first time since Brazil in 1962.
Egypt
- Advanced after defeating Australia on penalties.
- Salah continues to captain and inspire the Pharaohs.
- Omar Marmoush has emerged as a key attacking outlet.
- Looking to reach the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals for the first time.
Best Bets & Prediction
Prediction: Argentina to win at 1.33.
Best Bet: Argentina to win & under 3.5 total goals at 1.80.
Alternative Bet: Lionel Messi to score anytime at 1.64.
