Argentina survived a major scare against tournament surprise package Cape Verde, edging a dramatic 3-2 victory after extra time at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami to book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16.
The reigning world champions were pushed to the limit by the world No. 64 side, who twice came from behind and forced Lionel Scaloni’s men into a gruelling 120-minute battle before eventually bowing out with their heads held high.
As expected, Argentina dominated possession early, controlling 64 percent of the ball, but Cape Verde defended bravely and restricted the South Americans to few clear chances.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 29th minute when Lionel Messi produced another moment of brilliance. The Argentine captain timed his run perfectly onto a pass from Lisandro Martínez before finishing clinically from a tight angle beyond veteran goalkeeper Vozinha.
The goal was Messi’s seventh of the 2026 World Cup and his 20th career goal in World Cup history, extending his record as the tournament’s all-time leading scorer.
Argentina appeared in control, but Cape Verde stunned the favourites after the break. In the 60th minute, Deroy Duarte burst through and fired a low finish past Emiliano Martínez to make it 1-1.
Messi nearly restored Argentina’s lead soon after but failed to convert a one-on-one opportunity, while Vozinha continued his outstanding performance with a series of crucial saves.
Argentina eventually regained the advantage in extra time when Lisandro Martínez reacted quickest to a loose ball from a corner and smashed home in the 93rd minute.
Once again, Cape Verde refused to surrender. In the 104th minute, Lopes Cabral produced one of the goals of the tournament, cutting in from the left and curling a magnificent right-footed strike beyond Emiliano Martínez to level the match at 2-2.
The African underdogs had the world champions under immense pressure and looked capable of forcing penalties.
Argentina finally found the decisive moment in the 111th minute from another set piece. As Cristian Romero challenged in the air, Cape Verde defender Diney Borges inadvertently headed the ball into his own net, leaving Vozinha helpless.
It proved to be the winning goal in a thrilling contest that showcased the resilience and quality of Cape Verde, whose fearless World Cup run came to an end despite a heroic display.
For Argentina, the victory keeps alive their dream of defending the World Cup crown, though the performance also served as a warning ahead of tougher tests to come.
Awaiting Messi and company in the Round of 16 is Egypt, led by superstar Mohamed Salah, setting up one of the most anticipated knockout clashes of the tournament.
Credit Photo : AFA
