Defending champions Argentina survived one of the biggest scares in FIFA World Cup history on Friday, edging tournament debutants Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time in a breathtaking Round of 32 encounter.
Lionel Messi once again proved decisive, scoring the opening goal before providing the corner that led to the late winner, helping Argentina avoid a stunning upset against the African underdogs in Miami Gardens.
The victory sends Lionel Scaloni’s men into the Round of 16, where they will face Egypt, but not before enduring a match that exposed vulnerabilities in the reigning world champions.
Argentina began the game as overwhelming favourites, boasting the tournament’s top-ranked side against a Cape Verde team making its first-ever World Cup appearance.
However, despite dominating possession, the South Americans found themselves frustrated by Cape Verde’s disciplined defending and the brilliance of veteran goalkeeper Vozinha.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 29th minute when Lisandro Martínez delivered a perfectly weighted pass over the defence for Messi, who controlled expertly before finishing calmly to hand Argentina a deserved lead.
The goal was Messi’s seventh of the tournament, strengthening his challenge for the Golden Boot and extending his remarkable scoring streak at the World Cup.
Rather than collapse after conceding, Cape Verde responded with remarkable determination.
Deroy Duarte equalised in the second half after a swift attacking move sliced through Argentina’s defence, silencing the thousands of Argentine supporters inside the stadium.
Cape Verde continued to frustrate the holders throughout the remainder of normal time, with Vozinha producing a string of outstanding saves to force the contest into extra time.
Argentina regained the advantage early in extra time through Lisandro Martínez, who finished from close range following a corner to make it 2-1.
Just when it appeared the champions had regained control, Cape Verde produced one of the tournament’s defining moments.
Full-back Sidny Lopes Cabral curled a magnificent strike into the top corner from outside the penalty area, leaving goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez rooted to the spot and bringing the score level once again.
The spectacular effort instantly entered conversations as one of the finest goals of the 2026 World Cup.
With penalties looming, Argentina found one final breakthrough.
Messi’s dangerous corner found Cristian Romero, whose powerful header deflected off Cape Verde defender Diney Borges before crossing the line in the 111th minute.
Cape Verde still had one last opportunity to force a shootout, but Emiliano Martínez produced an excellent save to deny Cabral’s late free-kick and preserve Argentina’s lead until the final whistle.
Although their World Cup journey came to an end, Cape Verde departed the tournament with enormous respect after pushing the defending champions to their limits.
The island nation had already impressed during the group stage by holding Spain to a goalless draw, earning another point against Uruguay and securing qualification for the knockout rounds as one of the best third-placed teams.
Against Argentina, they demonstrated remarkable organisation, resilience and attacking quality, proving they belonged on football’s biggest stage.
Their fearless display is expected to serve as a foundation for future World Cup campaigns.
At 39, Messi once again showed why he remains the heartbeat of Argentina’s national team.
In addition to scoring, the captain registered an assist for the winning goal, attempted numerous shots and remained on the pitch for the full 120 minutes.
His leadership proved invaluable as Argentina weathered one of the toughest knockout matches of their title defence.
Warning Signs Before Egypt Clash
Despite progressing, Argentina will know significant improvements are needed before facing Egypt in the Round of 16.
Cape Verde repeatedly exposed defensive weaknesses, with simple attacking moves creating dangerous opportunities against a backline that struggled to cope under pressure.
Manager Lionel Scaloni had warned his players not to underestimate the African side before kick-off, and the match ultimately justified those concerns.
Argentina may still be among the favourites to retain the World Cup, but their dramatic escape served as a reminder that every remaining opponent is capable of causing major problems if the champions fail to raise their level.
