Defending champions Argentina survived a determined challenge from World Cup debutants Cape Verde to secure a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory and book their place in the last 16.
Lionel Messi scored his 20th FIFA World Cup goal as Argentina eventually ended Cape Verde’s remarkable tournament run in a match that pushed the South American side to the limit in the sweltering conditions of Miami.
Argentina appeared to be in control after Messi produced another moment of brilliance in the first half. The veteran forward expertly controlled a pass from Lisandro Martinez before lifting the ball past goalkeeper Vozinha to give his side the lead. The goal was Messi’s seventh of the tournament in just four matches and extended his record of scoring in eight consecutive World Cup games.
Cape Verde, however, refused to be intimidated by the reigning champions. The African side, playing in its first World Cup, had already impressed by earning draws against Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia during the group stage. That resilience was on display again after the break.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who had little to do in the opening half, was called into action early in the second period with a fine save from Deroy Duarte. Moments later, Duarte found the net after receiving a pass from Ryan Mendes and firing a low shot into the corner to level the match.
Argentina created several chances to regain the advantage, but Vozinha continued his outstanding tournament by denying Messi in a one-on-one situation. Defender Pico Lopes also made a crucial intervention to stop Enzo Fernandez from converting another opportunity created by the Argentine captain.
The deadlock continued into extra time, where Lisandro Martinez restored Argentina’s lead two minutes after the restart by striking home following a corner.
Cape Verde responded once again. Sidny Lopes Cabral produced one of the standout goals of the tournament, smashing a powerful effort into the top corner before celebrating with supporters in the stands, sending the match toward the prospect of a penalty shootout.
Argentina finally secured victory from another set piece. Messi delivered a dangerous corner that Cristian Romero met with a towering header. The ball took a deflection off Cape Verde defender Diney Borges before crossing the goal line for an own goal that proved decisive.
Cape Verde launched one final attack in the closing moments, but Emiliano Martinez preserved Argentina’s lead with another excellent save to deny Lopes Cabral.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised his team’s determination while acknowledging the quality of their opponents after his 100th match in charge.
“It would have been madness to lose,” Scaloni said. “It was a very tough match. This team never gives up, and we have to congratulate our opponents. They showed there are no easy matches at this stage.”
Argentina will now face Egypt in the last 16 in Atlanta, while Cape Verde leave the tournament having earned widespread admiration for an impressive debut on football’s biggest stage.
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