Messi’s Argentina survive Cabo Verde scare to reach World Cup last 16
Defending champions Argentina survived a spirited challenge from Cabo Verde to secure a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory in their FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash on Friday, booking a place in the last 16 after one of the tournament’s most entertaining matches.
Lionel Messi gave Argentina the lead in the 29th minute with a clinical finish, extending his remarkable World Cup scoring streak and putting the South Americans on course for victory. However, Cabo Verde refused to be overawed and continued to threaten despite trailing at halftime.
The African debutants were rewarded for their resilience when Deroy Duarte drew them level in the second half, stunning the Argentine supporters and forcing the reigning champions to dig deep as regulation time ended 1-1.
Argentina regained the advantage early in extra time through Lisandro Martínez, but Cabo Verde responded once again as Sidny Lopes Cabral fired home another equaliser, setting up a tense finale and raising the prospect of a penalty shootout.
With penalties looming, Cristian Romero emerged as Argentina’s hero, heading home the decisive goal late in extra time to seal a hard-fought 3-2 victory and send the defending champions into the next round.
Although eliminated, Cabo Verde earned widespread admiration for a fearless display against one of football’s traditional powerhouses. Making their first appearance in the World Cup knockout stage, they matched Argentina for long periods, defended resolutely, attacked with confidence and twice fought back from behind to push the world champions to their limits.
Argentina’s victory secured their place in the Round of 16, but the match also underscored the growing strength of African football on the global stage. Cabo Verde’s disciplined performance and attacking intent made life difficult for Lionel Scaloni’s side throughout the contest.
Despite the defeat, Cabo Verde left the tournament with their heads held high after delivering one of the biggest performances by an underdog at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Argentina advanced, but only after surviving a determined opponent that refused to surrender until the final whistle.
