Miami, United States: Defending champions Argentina defeated Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time in the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Miami Stadium on Saturday, securing a place in the Round of 16, where they will face Egypt.
Cape Verde produced a spirited performance, coming from behind twice to level the score and pushing Lionel Scaloni’s side to their limits. Argentina dominated possession in the opening stages, and Lionel Messi opened the scoring in the 29th minute after being set up by Lisandro Martínez. The goal extended Messi’s remarkable record of scoring in eight consecutive FIFA World Cup matches.
Before halftime, Enzo Fernández tested Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha with a powerful long-range effort, but the shot-stopper made an impressive save to keep his side in the contest.
Cape Verde responded strongly after the break. Deroy Duarte came close to equalising before eventually finding the net with a low strike after Emiliano Martínez had initially denied him, making it 1-1.
Argentina continued to press forward, with Messi missing a one-on-one opportunity before seeing a dangerous free kick saved by Vozinha. As Argentina searched for a winner late in the game, the Cape Verde goalkeeper produced several crucial saves, including another outstanding stop from Messi’s stoppage-time free kick.
Despite relentless pressure from Argentina, Cape Verde defended bravely to keep the scores level at the end of regulation time, forcing the match into extra time, where Argentina eventually secured a dramatic 3-2 victory to book their place in the knockout stage.
