Home Football FIFA World CupArgentina survive Cabo Verde scare to reach Round of 16

Argentina survive Cabo Verde scare to reach Round of 16

Jul 4, 2026 12:30 AM GMT+00:00

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Argentina survive Cabo Verde scare to reach Round of 16

Lionel Messi continued his remarkable FIFA World Cup legacy by scoring as Argentina defeated Cabo Verde 3-2 after extra time in one of the most dramatic matches of the 2026 tournament.

The reigning world champions were pushed to their limits by the tournament debutants before eventually sealing victory through an own goal deep into extra time. The win books Argentina's place in the Round of 16, where they will face Egypt after the Pharaohs defeated Australia on penalties earlier in the day.

Messi delivers again

Argentina dominated possession throughout much of the first half but struggled to break down Cabo Verde's resilient defence. The breakthrough finally arrived in the 29th minute.

Lisandro Martinez spotted Lionel Messi making a perfectly timed run behind the defence before lifting a delicate pass into his path. Messi controlled brilliantly before smashing an unstoppable finish into the roof of the net beyond veteran goalkeeper Vozinha.

The goal was Messi's seventh of the tournament and his record-extending 20th FIFA World Cup goal overall. His strike also extended his remarkable scoring streak to eight consecutive World Cup matches.

Cabo Verde refuse to fold

Despite Argentina's quality, Cabo Verde refused to be intimidated. The African nation equalised through Sidny Lopes Cabral, stunning the largely Argentina-supporting crowd.

Argentina regained control in extra time when Lisandro Martinez powered home to restore the lead. Yet Cabo Verde struck back again through Deroy Duarte, forcing another twist in an already unforgettable contest.

The debutants continued to frustrate Argentina with disciplined defending and outstanding goalkeeping from Vozinha.

Own goal finally settles thriller

With penalties looming, Argentina found the decisive breakthrough in the 111th minute.

Cristian Romero rose highest to meet a delivery into the penalty area, with his header taking a decisive deflection off Cabo Verde defender Diney Borges before finding the net.

The goal was officially recorded as an own goal and proved enough to send Lionel Scaloni's side through to the next round.

Vozinha earns global praise

Although Cabo Verde exited the tournament, goalkeeper Vozinha produced one of the finest individual performances of World Cup 2026. The 40-year-old made 10 saves, including five from Messi, repeatedly frustrating the defending champions and keeping his nation alive throughout the contest.

His performances throughout the tournament have become one of the biggest stories of this year's World Cup.

Cabo Verde's historic campaign ends

Cabo Verde may have fallen short, but their tournament will be remembered for years. Making their FIFA World Cup debut, they became the smallest nation ever to reach the knockout rounds.

They advanced after earning impressive results against Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia before producing another fearless display against the reigning world champions.

Their courageous performance earned admiration from football fans around the world.

Argentina march on

For Argentina, the victory keeps alive hopes of defending their World Cup crown. Messi once again proved decisive on football's biggest stage, while Lisandro Martinez delivered at both ends of the pitch with an assist and a crucial goal.

The reigning champions now turn their attention to Egypt, knowing the level of performance will need to improve if they are to continue their journey toward another World Cup final.