When the fixture list threw up Argentina versus Egypt in the Round of 16, someone somewhere must have rubbed their hands together with glee, because this is the kind of matchup that gets the blood pumping. On one side, you have got the most decorated nation in South American football history—sixteen Copa America titles, reigning World Cup champions, and a certain someone named Lionel Messi who apparently refuses to age. On the other, you have got the kings of African football with seven Africa Cup of Nations trophies, plus a certain Mohamed Salah who has been carrying Egypt's hopes on his shoulders for years.
Argentina cruised through the group stage with three straight wins, looking every bit the champions they are. But then Cabo Verde—yes, CABO VERDE, the tournament debutants—nearly pulled off one of the greatest shocks in World Cup history in the Round of 32. Argentina needed a late own goal in extra time just to survive 3-2. That must have been absolutely terrifying for Scaloni's men, like narrowly avoiding a car crash on your way to work.
Egypt had it even tougher. They had to go all the way to penalties against Australia after a grueling 1-1 draw, eventually prevailing 4-3 from the spot. That win gave Egypt their first-ever Round of 16 appearance, which is a massive milestone for a nation that had waited so long for World Cup success.
The history between these two is sparse—just two previous meetings. Argentina won a 2008 friendly 2-0 thanks to goals from Sergio Aguero and Nicolas Burdisso, and their other encounter was at the 1928 Olympics where the South Americans rolled to a 6-0 victory. Let's be honest, that 1928 result is not exactly relevant anymore.
Scaloni was clearly not taking Egypt lightly, praising their organization and specifically name-checking Salah as a player his team would need to watch carefully. Egypt's coach Hossam Hassan responded in kind, saying his team respects but does not fear Argentina, regardless of the shirt or the name on the back. That is the kind of quiet confidence that can be dangerous.
The winner of this one books a date with either Switzerland or Colombia in Kansas City on July 11. And with the match being played at Atlanta Stadium—a venue so fancy it has a retractable roof and a 360-degree halo video screen—the stage is set for something special.
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