2026 World Cup/ Argentina survive Cape Verde scare in World Cup thriller
Argentina scraped past Cape Verde 3-2 in extra time during Friday’s World Cup round of 32 clash in Miami. The defending champions avoided the biggest upset in knockout history, with Lionel Messi starring once again.
The decisive moment came late. After 111 minutes, Messi swung a set piece into the box. Diney Borges challenged Cristian Romero in the air, but the ball deflected off the Cape Verdean defender and into his own net. Heartbreak for the African side.
Messi had opened the scoring in the 29th minute. He controlled a pass brilliantly with his left boot before flicking past the goalkeeper.
The Argentine now has seven goals in this tournament, one ahead of Kylian Mbappé in the Golden Boot race.
Cape Verde refused to fold. Deroy Duarte drilled home an equalizer after 59 minutes. Lisandro Martínez restored Argentina’s lead in extra time, but Sidny Lopes Cabral produced a stunning curling effort to level again at 2-2.
The 40-year-old Cape Verdean goalkeeper, Vozinha, produced several outstanding saves. He denied Messi’s free kick and other attempts throughout the match.
“We drew twice against the world champions,” Cape Verde coach Bubista said proudly. “Our players were dignified in the World Cup.”
Argentina will face Egypt in the round of 16 on Tuesday. Coach Lionel Scaloni admitted: “When people say there’s no such thing as an easy opponent, today Cape Verde proved they’re a great team.”
