Argentina will meet Egypt in the 2026 World Cup Round of 16 after both teams secured knockout-stage berths on Friday.
The defending champions edged past tournament debutants Cape Verde 3-2 in extra time. Cristian Romero scored the decisive header in the 111th minute.
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Lionel Messi opened the scoring for Argentina in the 29th minute. Cape Verde equalized in the 59th minute through a low strike past goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
Lisandro Martinez restored Argentina's lead in the 92nd minute of extra time. Sydney Cabral leveled again for Cape Verde in the 103rd minute.
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According to reports, the victory sets up a knockout stage matchup against Egypt at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on July 7, 2026.
Egypt secured its historic first-ever spot in the Round of 16 by defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in Dallas on Friday.
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Egypt and Morocco are the only two Arab nations to advance to the knockout phase. Morocco is scheduled to face Canada after eliminating the Netherlands.
