Argentina eliminated World Cup debutants Cape Verde with a 3-2 extra-time victory in Miami on Saturday, July 4, 2026.
The reigning champions ended the African nation's historic tournament run after a grueling match.
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The winning goal came from a header by Cristian Romero that deflected off Cape Verde defender Diney Borges into the net, breaking a 2-2 tie in extra time.
Lionel Messi opened the scoring for Argentina, but Cape Verde equalized to force extra time. Sidny Lopes Cabral later scored a stunning equalizer after Argentina took another lead.
Pundits Praise Cape Verde's Performance
Former Scotland international James McFadden praised the squad during a BBC Radio 5 Live broadcast. "Cape Verde have lost, but they've won," McFadden said.
He highlighted the team's spirit as the defining narrative of the tournament. "They have shown courage, togetherness, unity and unwavering belief," McFadden added.
Former England right-back Gary Neville expressed admiration on ITV.
"They are crying because they are going home," Neville said, describing the performance as one of the greatest underdog displays he had ever witnessed.
Neville also praised goalkeeper Vozinha, who became a free agent after his contract with Portuguese club Chaves expired.
"Vozinha is going to get a good club off the back of this," Neville stated.
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Cape Verde manager Bubista expressed immense pride in his team.
"We showed that we may be a small country but we can play against the best teams in the world," Bubista said.
He lauded the team's resilience.
"To be able to play the way we did against the world champions, and to draw level twice, is something incredible," Bubista concluded.
Cape Verde center-back Roberto 'Pico' Lopes reflected on the global recognition.
"One of the best things to come from this World Cup is nobody asks where Cape Verde is on the map any more," Lopes said.
Former England striker Ian Wright spoke on ITV about the broader implications.
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"When you give people the opportunity they can get onto the biggest stage no matter how small they are," Wright stated.
