Defending champions Argentina booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 after defeating Cape Verde 3-2 in a dramatic extra-time encounter on Friday.
Although Lionel Messi inspired Argentina with a goal and an assist, the football icon reserved special praise for Cape Verde, applauding the tournament debutants for their fearless performance against one of the world’s strongest teams.
“We knew this would be a very tough match. In the World Cup, no one gives you anything for free. Now it’s about resting, learning from today, and focusing on the next game. Also, congratulations to Cape Verde for that great performance,” Messi said after the match.
Messi Leads Argentina in Thrilling Knockout Battle
Argentina opened the scoring in the 29th minute after Lionel Messi brilliantly controlled a diagonal pass from Lisandro Martínez before firing into the roof of the net.
The strike marked Messi’s seventh goal of FIFA World Cup 2026, moving him to the top of the tournament’s Golden Boot standings.
However, Cape Verde refused to back down.
Shortly before the hour mark, Ryan Mendes set up Deroy Duarte, who calmly finished from a tight angle to score Cape Verde’s first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout-stage goal and level the match.
Cape Verde Push Argentina Into Extra Time
Cape Verde continued to impress with an energetic display, while goalkeeper Vozinha produced several crucial saves to deny Messi and keep his side in the contest.
The match eventually went into extra time.
Argentina regained the lead when Lisandro Martínez converted from close range following a corner.
Yet Cape Verde responded once again. Sidny Lopes Cabral curled home a spectacular equaliser, making it 2-2 and keeping the dream alive for the African nation.
Cristian Romero Scores the Winner
The decisive goal arrived in the second half of extra time.
Messi delivered a dangerous corner that Cristian Romero powered towards goal. The header took a slight deflection before finding the net, giving Argentina a crucial 3-2 advantage.
Cape Verde nearly forced a penalty shootout late in the game, but goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez made a vital save to preserve Argentina’s lead and secure qualification.
Messi’s Respect Wins Hearts
While Argentina celebrated qualification, Messi’s post-match comments also attracted attention.
Instead of focusing only on his team’s victory, the Argentine captain congratulated Cape Verde for their determined performance.
The newcomers earned widespread praise throughout the tournament for their fearless football and competitive spirit against the reigning world champions.
Argentina to Face Egypt in Round of 16
Argentina will now face Egypt in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16.
Meanwhile, Cape Verde exit the competition with pride after an impressive World Cup debut that showcased their growing strength on the international stage.
Despite the defeat, their spirited display against Argentina is expected to be remembered as one of the standout performances of the tournament.
