Argentina advanced to the next round of the World Cup after a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory over Cape Verde in Miami.
The defending champions narrowly avoided a historic upset against the tournament debutants.
An own goal by Diney Borges in the 111th minute secured the win for the world's second-ranked team.
Cape Verde, ranked 64th, equalized twice to force extra time, according to a BBC report.
Lionel Messi opened the scoring in the 29th minute. He controlled a long ball from defender Lisandro Martinez to score his 20th career World Cup goal.
Cape Verde responded in the second half when Deroy Duarte converted from a tight angle, beating goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
Argentina regained the lead two minutes into extra time. Lisandro Martinez scored after a corner flick from Alexis Mac Allister.
Cape Verde equalized again 11 minutes later. Sidny Lopes Cabral curled a strike into the top corner of the net.
The match ended after Borges' decisive own goal. A late save from Emiliano Martinez denied Cabral a third equalizer, preventing a penalty shootout.
