Egypt and Argentina will face off today at 12:00 p.m. ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Ga.
Argentina is favored at a -264 price, with the over/under set at 2.5 (-100o / -125u) goals.
Let's get into my Egypt vs. Argentina prediction.
Argentina vs Egypt Prediction
Pick: Argentina to Win & Lionel Messi to Score.
My Argentina vs Egypt best bet is that Argentina will win and Lionel Messi will score. This wager is based on the defending champions' offensive power and their captain's exceptional form throughout the 2026 tournament.
Argentina vs Egypt Odds
| Egypt Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
+1.5 -155 | 2.5 -100o / -125u | +750 |
| Argentina Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
-1.5 +110 | 2.5 -100o / -125u | -264 |
Argentina vs Egypt World Cup Preview
The tactical dynamic of this match heavily favors Argentina. The South American champions average over 60% possession and will likely control the tempo of the game. Egypt, in contrast, has tended to cede possession against stronger opponents, averaging just 44% of the ball in matches where they were significant underdogs. This will allow Argentina to dictate play and create numerous scoring chances.
Lionel Messi will be the central figure, drifting across the pitch to find pockets of space that Egypt’s midfield may struggle to cover. His ability to create and finish makes him a constant threat. For Egypt to have any chance, Mohamed Salah must deliver a transcendent performance, likely operating in a central role to maximize his impact with minimal defensive duties.
Historically, this has been a one-sided matchup. Argentina has won both previous encounters with a combined score of 8-0. Furthermore, Argentina boasts an impressive record against African nations in the tournament, with six wins, one draw, and just one loss. For Egypt, this is uncharted territory, and the pressure of a knockout game against the reigning champions could be overwhelming.
Both teams are coming off grueling extra-time matches in the previous round, but Argentina's deeper squad and experience at this stage should give them an advantage as the game wears on. All signs point to a convincing performance from the favorites.
Check out the best soccer odds before making your Egypt vs Argentina picks.
Argentina vs Egypt Picks, Parlay
- Argentina to Win & Lionel Messi to Score (+100 at bet365)
- Lionel Messi to Score 2+ Goals (+333 at bet365)
Argentina enters this knockout match as the clear favorite, and much of that is due to the timeless brilliance of Lionel Messi. At 39 years old, he has been a dominant force in North America, scoring in all four of Argentina’s games for a total of seven goals. He is significantly outperforming his expected goals (xG) of 4.01, a testament to his clinical finishing from every angle. This offensive output is a key reason why Argentina is on a nine-game streak of scoring two or more goals in tournament matches.
While the defending champions showed some vulnerability by needing extra time to overcome Cape Verde in the Round of 32, their underlying metrics were strong. They generated 2.26 xG while conceding only 0.47 xGA, showcasing a robust defensive structure that should limit Egypt's opportunities. Argentina’s defense has been a cornerstone of their success, conceding just 0.4 goals per game over their last 10 matches.
For Egypt, reaching the knockout stage is a historic achievement. However, this represents a monumental step up in competition. Their defense has yet to record a clean sheet in the tournament and has an expected goals against (xGA) of 1.27 per game. Facing an attack led by an in-form Messi will be their toughest challenge yet. While Mohamed Salah provides a world-class threat, Egypt will likely struggle to contain an Argentinian side that excels on both sides of the ball.
Argentina vs Egypt Projected Lineups
Argentina Expected Lineup (4-4-2)
Goalkeeper: E. Martinez
Defenders: Molina, Romero, L. Martinez, Tagliafico
Midfielders: De Paul, Paredes, Mac Allister, Fernandez
Forwards: Messi, Alvarez
Egypt Expected Lineup (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper: Shobeir
Defenders: Hany, Ibrahim, Rabia, Hafez
Midfielders: Lasheen, Ateya, Zico
Forwards: Salah, Marmoush, Ashour
