MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Argentina narrowly secured a place in the World Cup round of 16 with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Cape Verde after extra time on Friday.
In the 111th minute, Tottenham defender Cristian Romero found the back of the net, heading home the winner after a deflection off Diney Borges‘s attempt to clear Lionel Messi‘s corner kick. This came after Cape Verde had posed a significant threat to the reigning champions, almost pulling off a monumental upset.
The African underdogs managed to level the score twice, including once in extra time, pushing Argentina to the edge of an unimaginable defeat.
Messi opened the scoring with his seventh goal of the tournament in the first half, but Deroy Duarte equalized in the second half, silencing the passionate Argentina supporters in attendance.
With the score tied at 1-1 after 90 minutes, Manchester United defender Lisandro Martínez seemed to have edged Argentina ahead early in extra time with a goal, making it 2-1.
However, fullback Sidny Cabral countered with a remarkable curling shot that found the top corner, leveling the match once more.
Argentina regained the lead when Borges unintentionally deflected a header from Romero into his own net. Yet, there was still time for one final twist as Emiliano Martínez made a stunning save from Cabral’s free kick, securing Argentina’s progression in the tournament. — Rob Dawson
No. 1 Argentina Faces Unprecedented Challenge from No. 67 Cape Verde
The knockout stages of the World Cup never offer easy matches, even one involving the top-ranked team facing an opponent ranked 67th in FIFA.
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni cautioned his players against underestimating Cape Verde, recognizing their strength as a defensive unit deserving of a place in the knockout rounds.
He was right, as Cape Verde made it a daunting encounter for the reigning champions.
After equalizing twice, Cape Verde showcased exceptional organization in defense to stymie Argentina’s attack for extended periods. Goalkeeper Vozinha delivered an outstanding performance, recording eight saves that extended the match into extra time.
While Argentina eventually found a late winner, the tension was palpable as Cape Verde continually tested the reigning champions, equalizing on multiple occasions before the decisive goal arrived.
Messi remained on the pitch for the entirety of the match, underscoring the significant challenge posed by Cape Verde.
Argentina anticipated a tough battle against Cape Verde, but even Scaloni may not have foreseen the intense contest that unfolded on Friday night in Miami Gardens.
A defeat would have marked the biggest upset in World Cup knockout history based on FIFA rankings since 1994, surpassing the 2018 round of 16 exit of the No. 10 ranked Spain by No. 70 ranked Russia on penalties. — Lizzy Becherano
Cape Verde Returns Home with Honor and Respect from the World Cup
What a remarkable display! Few teams have garnered as much respect in defeat as this Cape Verde squad. They almost pulled off the biggest surprise in the history of this prestigious tournament.
This will be a World Cup experience Cape Verde will cherish forever, featuring a draw against Spain, a first World Cup goal against Uruguay, and Cabral’s phenomenal strike—memorable moments that will place Cape Verde on the global football map.
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Chaos in Cape Verde as stunning goal shocks Argentina
The next step is to aim for regular appearances at the World Cup. Qualifying from Africa is notoriously challenging (just ask Nigeria and Cameroon), but Cape Verde can capitalize on what they have achieved this summer to grow as a football nation.
The objective will be to build on their inaugural World Cup experience and ensure qualification for the next tournament in 2030. They return home with heads held high. — Dawson
As the Round of 16 Approaches, Argentina Looks Vulnerable
If Egypt was observing, they will enter their match in Atlanta with renewed confidence.
Argentina displayed warning signs early on. Romero and Rodrigo De Paul both faced moments of uncertainty with misplaced passes that could have led to scoring opportunities for Cape Verde.
Cabral’s goal was so exceptional that there was little anyone could do to prevent it; the placement into the top corner was perfection.
Cape Verde’s opening goal, however, raises concerns—it was too simple.
Just two passes sliced through Argentina’s defense, with Enzo Fernández caught ball-watching when the ball found Duarte. While Messi has been magnificent with his goals and performances, there are issues for Lionel Scaloni to address in the coming days.
If Argentina continues to play like this against Egypt, they may find themselves eliminated early. — Dawson
Lionel Messi Remains the Heartbeat of Argentina
Messi continues to be the pivotal force for success within the Argentina national team. The Albiceleste captain scored the opening goal of the round-of-32 match, breaking the 0-0 deadlock in the 29th minute.
He has now scored in eight consecutive World Cup matches, extending his record as the highest goal scorer in men’s World Cup history to 20. The 39-year-old Messi is tied with Kylian Mbappé in the Golden Boot race for the 2026 World Cup.
Messi dominated the match, contributing one goal, nine total shots, and an assist on the game-winning goal.
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Buenos Aires goes wild for Messi’s opening goal vs. Cape Verde
There were questions about what version of Messi would emerge at this tournament. Would manager Lionel Scaloni manage his playing time? Could he keep up with the international pace? It’s safe to say he has silenced any doubts about his role, scoring and playing the full 120 minutes against Cape Verde.
His teammates recognize his importance as well.
“There are no words for Messi… if anyone thought this team was better without Leo, today it became clear he is the most vital player,” Alexis Mac Allister noted following the match on June 17.
Messi’s impact during Argentina’s World Cup opener extends strong into the knockout round. — Becherano
Lisandro Martínez Shines for Argentina
Lisandro Martínez faced a challenging season at Manchester United due to injuries, but he demonstrated his capabilities against Cape Verde.
It was his pinpoint pass during the first half that soared over Borges and landed perfectly at Messi’s feet. Messi’s touch and finish were exquisite, but Martínez’s advance play initiated the goal.
Martínez excels at playing the ball; although he may occasionally be caught out of position defensively or commit unnecessary challenges, he is valued for his distribution and vision.
He has the ability to spot passes that slice through the opponent’s defense, consistently making impactful plays. While Messi will garner headlines for his score, it was Martínez who opened up the play. His touch and execution for his extra-time goal were commendable as well. — Dawson
Argentina’s Warm Reception in Miami
Friday night’s match felt like a true homecoming for the Argentina national team. Upon their entrance, the players were greeted by a sea of sky-blue and white adorning Miami Stadium, with flags displaying various styles of the Argentine flag draped from the railings. Some featured images of Messi and Maradona, while others proudly declared “Vamos Argentina.”
Fans in the stands created an electrifying atmosphere, significantly outpacing any Argentina crowd witnessed in this World Cup, even in the larger venue of Dallas. The energy heightened when Messi’s goal found the net, sending the stadium into a frenzy, shaking the press box above.
Even after Cape Verde equalized twice, supporters continued to cheer relentlessly. When the match concluded, the fans remained seated, maintaining their chants and songs as long as the players were on the field.
Argentina has a storied history in this stadium, having won the 2024 Copa America here against Colombia and returning for pre-World Cup friendlies. The venue certainly felt like home turf for Argentina. — Becherano