Argentina secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over debutant Cape Verde after extra time in the 2026 World Cup knockout stage at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on Friday, July 3, 2026.
The reigning world champions advanced to the round of 16 following a dramatic 120-minute encounter against the African archipelago.
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Messi Opens the Scoring
Lionel Messi opened the scoring for Argentina in the 29th minute, controlling a high pass from Lisandro Martinez before finding the back of the net.
The strike marked Messi's 20th career World Cup goal and his seventh consecutive game scoring in the tournament.
Cape Verde leveled the match in the 58th minute when Deroy Duarte beat goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez from a difficult angle after receiving a pass from Ryan Mendes.
The historic equalizer forced the match into extra time following several crucial saves by Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha.
Extra-Time Drama
Lisandro Martinez briefly restored Argentina's lead in the 92nd minute by converting a deflected corner kick delivered by Messi.
However, Cape Verde responded ten minutes later when Sidny Lopes Cabral curled a spectacular shot into the far top corner to make it 2-2.
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Cristian Romero scored the match-winning goal in the 111th minute, heading home another corner kick from Messi.
The victory sets up a round of 16 matchup for Argentina against Egypt, scheduled for Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Atlanta Stadium.
Prior to the match, confidence was high within the African nation's camp despite low outside expectations.
"We are playing to win ...
when expectations are low regarding a team, and if that team has the urge to win, it is possible," said José Maria Neves, President of Cape Verde.
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The debutants exit North America having previously held Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia to draws during the group stage.
