Argentina Edge Cape Verde in a World Cup Classic
Argentina survived one of the most dramatic matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time in a thrilling Round of 32 clash. Lionel Messi made history with his record-breaking 30th FIFA World Cup appearance, while the defending champions needed an extra-time own goal to book their place in the Round of 16.
The match had everything football fans could ask for, including breathtaking goals, dramatic twists, historic milestones, and an unforgettable performance from World Cup debutants Cape Verde.
Lionel Messi Creates Another World Cup Record
Lionel Messi added another chapter to his legendary career by becoming the first player in football history to make 30 FIFA World Cup appearances.
The Argentina captain celebrated the occasion with a brilliant goal in the 29th minute. Lisandro Martinez delivered a perfectly timed long pass, and Messi controlled it beautifully before calmly lifting the ball over goalkeeper Vozinha to give Argentina a deserved lead.
It was another reminder of why Messi continues to shine on football’s biggest stage.
Cape Verde Produce a Fearless Performance
Cape Verde refused to let the early setback affect their confidence. Playing in the first FIFA World Cup knockout match in their history, they attacked with courage and defended with great determination.
Their effort paid off in the 59th minute when Deroy Duarte finished a well-worked move with a low strike that beat Emiliano Martinez and brought Cape Verde level.
The equalizer shocked Argentina and gave the underdogs fresh belief.
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- https://www.fifa.com/
Argentina Miss Big Chances
After Cape Verde equalized, Argentina pushed hard to regain the lead.
Messi came close on two occasions. First, Vozinha denied him in a one-on-one situation with an outstanding save. Moments later, the veteran goalkeeper reacted quickly to stop Messi’s clever quick free-kick from finding the top corner.
Despite creating several opportunities, Argentina could not find another goal before full time, sending the match into extra time.
Extra Time Delivers More Drama
Argentina wasted little time in extra time.
Just two minutes after the restart, Lionel Messi’s corner found Alexis Mac Allister, whose flick-on reached Lisandro Martinez. The defender powered his shot into the roof of the net to restore Argentina’s lead.
However, Cape Verde responded once again.
Sidny Cabral produced one of the best goals of the tournament with a sensational curling strike into the top corner in the 103rd minute. The stunning finish made it 2-2 and kept Cape Verde dreaming of a famous upset.
Own Goal Sends Argentina Through
With penalties looking increasingly likely, Argentina finally found the decisive goal.
Messi delivered another dangerous corner into the box, and Cristian Romero met it with a powerful header. The ball deflected off Cape Verde defender Diney Borges before flying into the top corner.
The own goal proved to be the match winner as Argentina held on during the closing minutes of extra time.
Cape Verde created one final chance from a late free-kick, but Emiliano Martinez produced an important save to secure Argentina’s place in the next round.
Lionel Scaloni Reaches a Special Milestone
The victory also marked an important achievement for Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni, who managed his 100th international match.
Although Argentina progressed, the performance highlighted areas that Scaloni will want to improve before the Round of 16.
Cape Verde Exit With Pride
Cape Verde may have been eliminated, but they earned the respect of football fans around the world.
In their first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance, they pushed the defending champions to extra time and came close to forcing a penalty shootout.
Their fearless football and never-give-up attitude made them one of the biggest success stories of the tournament.
Argentina Set Up Round of 16 Clash With Egypt
Argentina will now face Egypt in the Round of 16 as they continue their quest to defend the FIFA World Cup title.
With Lionel Messi making history once again and the team showing resilience under pressure, Argentina remain one of the favorites. However, their dramatic win over Cape Verde proved that every knockout match will be a serious challenge.
Match Summary
Final Score: Argentina 3-2 Cape Verde (After Extra Time)
Argentina Goals:
- Lionel Messi (29′)
- Lisandro Martinez (92′)
- Diney Borges (Own Goal, 108′)
Cape Verde Goals:
- Deroy Duarte (59′)
- Sidny Cabral (103′)
Key Highlights
- Lionel Messi became the first player to make 30 FIFA World Cup appearances.
- Lionel Scaloni managed Argentina for the 100th time.
- Cape Verde impressed in their first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout match.
- Argentina advanced to the Round of 16, where they will face Egypt.
Conclusion
Argentina secured a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory over Cape Verde in one of the most entertaining matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Lionel Messi’s historic milestone, Cape Verde’s fearless display, and a dramatic extra-time winner created a true World Cup classic. Argentina move on to the Round of 16, while Cape Verde leave the tournament with pride after winning the admiration of football fans across the world.
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