Omanghana
Defending champions Argentina survived a major scare to defeat tournament debutants Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time in a thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 encounter at Miami Stadium on Friday, July 3.
In one of the most dramatic matches of the tournament, Argentina needed 120 minutes to overcome a resilient Cape Verde side that came within moments of producing one of the biggest upsets in FIFA World Cup history.
Messi Makes History Again
Lionel Messi gave Argentina the lead in the 28th minute, adding another remarkable milestone to his legendary career.
The goal was Messi’s 20th in FIFA World Cup competition, extending his record as one of the tournament’s greatest goalscorers. It also made him the first player ever to score in eight consecutive World Cup matches, further cementing his place in football history.
Argentina appeared in control for much of the opening half, but Cape Verde remained organized and continued to threaten on the counterattack.
Cape Verde Fight Back
The tournament newcomers found their breakthrough in the 59th minute through Deroy Duarte.
The midfielder finished confidently after a brilliant attacking move orchestrated by captain Ryan Mendes, whose perfectly timed nutmeg assist split Argentina’s defense and set up the equalizer.
The goal injected new belief into Cape Verde, who matched the reigning champions for intensity as the match headed into extra time following a 1-1 draw in regulation.
End-to-End Extra Time
Argentina regained the advantage almost immediately after extra time began.
Defender Lisandro Martínez rose to the occasion in the 91st minute, finishing from close range to restore the South Americans’ lead at 2-1.
However, Cape Verde refused to surrender. Sidny Lopes Cabral produced one of the goals of the tournament with a sensational long-range curling effort that flew beyond the goalkeeper to level the score at 2-2 and keep the underdogs’ dream alive.
Own Goal Decides Epic Contest
With penalties looming, Argentina found a dramatic winner in the 111th minute.
A dangerous corner delivered by Lionel Messi created chaos inside the Cape Verde penalty area before defender Diney Borges inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, handing Argentina a heartbreaking but decisive 3-2 advantage.
The defending champions managed the closing stages professionally to secure their place in the next round.
Argentina to Meet Egypt
The victory sends Argentina into the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, where they will take on Egypt in Atlanta on Tuesday, July 7.
While Argentina’s quest to retain the World Cup continues, Cape Verde exits the tournament with immense pride after an inspiring debut campaign that pushed the defending champions to the limit and earned admiration from football fans around the world.
Source: Omanghana
