Argentina booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 after defeating Cabo Verde 3-2 in an intense extra-time battle on Friday (July 3). The defending champions were pushed to their limits by the tournament’s biggest surprise package before finally securing victory.
Although Argentina entered the match as overwhelming favourites, Cabo Verde produced a fearless performance and twice fought back to level the score. However, the African nation could not hold on in extra time as an own goal decided the contest.
Messi Gives Argentina the Perfect Start
Lionel Messi once again delivered on the biggest stage. The Argentina captain opened the scoring in the 29th minute with a superb finish after timing his run perfectly behind the defence.
Lisandro Martinez floated a precise pass into the box. Messi controlled it with confidence before smashing the ball into the roof of the net, leaving goalkeeper Vozinha with no chance.
The goal marked Messi’s 20th career FIFA World Cup goal, extending his own tournament record. Moreover, it was his seventh goal of the 2026 World Cup, putting him ahead of France star Kylian Mbappe in the race for the Golden Boot.
Messi also continued his remarkable scoring streak by finding the net in his eighth consecutive World Cup match.
Cabo Verde Refuse to Give Up
Despite falling behind early, Cabo Verde showed incredible determination throughout the match.
Sidny Lopes Cabral equalised for the underdogs, sending their fans into celebration. Argentina regained control in extra time when Lisandro Martinez scored in the 103rd minute to make it 2-1.
However, Cabo Verde refused to surrender. Deroy Duarte struck another equaliser, stunning the large Argentina-supporting crowd and forcing the defending champions to dig even deeper.
Their fighting spirit once again proved why they have been one of the biggest stories of the tournament.
Own Goal Sends Argentina Through
With penalties looking increasingly likely, Argentina finally found the breakthrough in the 111th minute.
Cristian Romero rose highest to meet a cross with a powerful header. The ball deflected off Cabo Verde defender Diney Borges before finding the back of the net. The goal was officially recorded as an own goal and gave Argentina a dramatic 3-2 lead.
This time, Argentina held on until the final whistle to secure their place in the next round.
Vozinha Delivers Another Outstanding Performance
Although Cabo Verde’s World Cup journey ended, veteran goalkeeper Vozinha once again impressed on the biggest stage.
The 40-year-old made 10 crucial saves during the match, including five against Lionel Messi. His brilliant display kept Cabo Verde in the contest for more than 110 minutes and frustrated Argentina’s attack several times.
Throughout the tournament, Vozinha played a major role in his team’s historic run.
Cabo Verde’s Historic World Cup Journey Comes to an End
Cabo Verde may be heading home, but the team leaves the tournament with plenty of pride.
Playing in their first-ever FIFA World Cup, the tiny island nation became the smallest country to reach the knockout stage. Earlier in the competition, they earned impressive draws against Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia, proving they could compete with football’s biggest nations.
Although their dream has ended, Cabo Verde earned worldwide respect with fearless performances and never backed down against some of the world’s strongest teams.
Argentina Set Up Round of 16 Clash Against Egypt
Argentina will now face Egypt in the Round of 16. Egypt secured their place after defeating Australia in a penalty shootout earlier on Friday.
Meanwhile, Lionel Messi will look to continue his outstanding form as Argentina chase another FIFA World Cup title.