Argentina survived a huge scare to defeat Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time in a thrilling FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash. The defending champions now advance to face Egypt.
MIAMI, USA — Defending FIFA World Cup champions Argentina were pushed to the limit before edging tournament debutants Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time in one of the most thrilling matches of the 2026 World Cup.
In front of a crowd of 64,478 at Miami Stadium, Lionel Messi and his teammates were forced to dig deep against a fearless Cape Verde side that twice fought back from behind before an extra-time own goal ultimately decided the contest.
Argentina struck first in the 29th minute when Lionel Messi finished confidently after being picked out by Lisandro Martínez, giving the South American giants a deserved halftime lead.
Cape Verde refused to be intimidated and produced another spirited display after the break. Deroy Duarte brought the African nation level in the 59th minute, finishing a well-worked move created by captain Ryan Mendes to stun the reigning champions.
With the scores tied at the end of normal time, the match headed into extra time where Argentina quickly regained the advantage. Defender Lisandro Martínez found the net in the 92nd minute after excellent work from Alexis Mac Allister, restoring Argentina’s lead.
Once again, Cape Verde responded with remarkable determination. Sidny Cabral equalised in the 103rd minute after being set up by Yannick Semedo, leaving Argentina on the brink of a dramatic elimination.
The decisive moment arrived in the 111th minute. A dangerous delivery into the penalty area resulted in the ball being turned into Cape Verde’s own net by defender Diney Borges, handing Argentina a fortunate winning goal and sealing a dramatic 3-2 victory.
Cape Verde refused to surrender during the closing stages, launching wave after wave of attacks in search of another equaliser. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez produced a crucial late save to deny Cabral, while Argentina survived several anxious moments before the final whistle confirmed their place in the Round of 16.
Despite the defeat, Cape Verde earned widespread praise for one of the tournament’s most memorable performances. Ranked well below many of the competition’s traditional powers, the Blue Sharks matched the world champions for long periods and demonstrated courage, attacking football, and remarkable resilience throughout the contest.
Argentina, meanwhile, advance to the Round of 16, where they will face Egypt as they continue their quest to defend the World Cup title.
Match Summary
FIFA World Cup 2026 – Round of 32
Argentina 3-2 Cape Verde (After Extra Time)
Goals
- Argentina: Lionel Messi (29′), Lisandro Martínez (92′ ET), Diney Borges (111′ ET, own goal)
- Cape Verde: Deroy Duarte (59′), Sidny Cabral (103′ ET)
Attendance: 64,478
Venue: Miami Stadium
Cape Verde may be heading home, but their unforgettable World Cup journey has captured the admiration of football fans around the globe. Argentina progress, but only after surviving one of the toughest tests of their title defence.
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