Lionel Messi inspires defending champions as Argentina edge World Cup debutants Cape Verde in a thrilling 3-2 contest to book a last-16 clash with Egypt.
Defending champions Argentina secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 after overcoming a spirited Cape Verde side 3-2 in a dramatic contest at Miami Stadium. Despite facing a determined challenge from the tournament debutants, Argentina held their nerve to continue their title defense.
Cape Verde, appearing in their first-ever FIFA World Cup, exceeded expectations by pushing the reigning world champions to the limit. The African side twice fought back from behind, making Argentina work hard for every opportunity before eventually falling short in an entertaining encounter.
Argentina opened the scoring in the 29th minute when captain Lionel Messi found the back of the net with a clinical finish, giving his side a deserved first-half advantage.
However, Cape Verde responded strongly after the break as Deroy Duarte struck the equalizer, restoring parity at 1-1 and raising hopes of a major upset.
The match intensified in extra time, with both teams continuing to attack. Defender Lisandro Martínez restored Argentina’s lead in the first period of extra time with an impressive finish. Yet Cape Verde refused to surrender, as left-back Sidney Lopes Cabral produced a superb strike to level the score once again at 2-2.
The decisive moment arrived in the second half of extra time. Messi delivered a dangerous corner into the penalty area, where Cristian Romero’s header forced Cape Verde defender Dini Borges into an unfortunate own goal, handing Argentina a crucial 3-2 advantage.
Cape Verde nearly forced another equalizer in the closing moments when Sidney Lopes Cabral delivered a dangerous free-kick. However, Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez produced a brilliant save to deny the effort and preserve his team’s narrow lead until the final whistle.
The victory sends Argentina into the pre-quarterfinals, where they will face Egypt in the Round of 16. While the defending champions advanced, the match highlighted Cape Verde’s impressive debut on football’s biggest stage, with the newcomers earning widespread praise for their fearless performance against one of the tournament favorites.
Argentina will now shift their focus to the knockout stage, aiming to continue their successful World Cup campaign and move one step closer to retaining the prestigious title.