Argentina Edges Cabo Verde 3-2 in Thrilling World Cup Clash

In a gripping Round of 32 match at the FIFA World Cup 2026, Argentina narrowly defeated Cabo Verde 3-2 after extra time. Lionel Messi played a pivotal role, scoring the opening goal and assisting the winner. Cabo Verde, making their knockout stage debut, showcased remarkable resilience, equalizing twice during the match. Despite their valiant effort, they were unable to secure a penalty shootout. Argentina now moves on to face Egypt in the next round, while Cabo Verde exits the tournament with admiration for their performance. Read on for a detailed account of this thrilling encounter.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 4, 2026, 08:07 IST

Argentina Advances After Intense Match Against Cabo Verde

Miami (Florida) [US], July 4: In a thrilling encounter during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32, defending champions Argentina triumphed over a spirited Cabo Verde team with a score of 3-2 after extra time, securing their spot in the last 16.

Lionel Messi was instrumental in Argentina's success, scoring the opening goal in regulation time and later assisting Cristian Romero's winning goal in extra time. Following the match, Messi praised Cabo Verde for their courageous performance, acknowledging the challenge they presented.

“We anticipated a tough match. In the World Cup, nothing is given freely. Now, we need to rest, learn from this experience, and prepare for the next game. Congratulations to Cabo Verde for their remarkable effort,” Messi stated in a post-match interview.

Cabo Verde, making their debut in the World Cup knockout stages, started strong, testing Argentina early with a shot from Ryan Mendes before the South American team began to take control.

The first goal came in the 29th minute when Messi skillfully controlled a diagonal pass from Lisandro Martinez and scored, marking his seventh goal of the tournament and placing him at the top of the Golden Boot race.

Argentina seemed to be in command until halftime, but Cabo Verde returned with renewed vigor after the break. Their efforts paid off just before the hour mark when Mendes set up Deroy Duarte, who scored from a tight angle, marking Cabo Verde's first-ever knockout-stage goal in World Cup history.

Despite numerous opportunities, Argentina faced a formidable challenge from veteran goalkeeper Vozinha, whose remarkable saves from Messi kept the match level and pushed it into extra time.

Argentina regained the lead shortly after extra time commenced, with Lisandro Martinez scoring from close range following a corner. However, Cabo Verde responded valiantly, with Sidny Lopes Cabral delivering a stunning curling shot from a tight angle to equalize at 2-2.

The turning point arrived in the second half of extra time when Messi's corner was met by Romero, whose powerful header, slightly deflected off Diney Borges, found the net.

Cabo Verde nearly forced a penalty shootout late in the match, but Emiliano Martinez made a crucial save against Lopes Cabral's powerful free-kick, ensuring Argentina's advancement.

Argentina is set to face Egypt in the Round of 16, while Cabo Verde exits the tournament with great respect after a commendable World Cup debut that saw them challenge the reigning champions to extra time.