Defending champions Argentina booked their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Cape Verde 3-2 in a thrilling extra-time encounter.
Lionel Messi gave Argentina the lead with his seventh goal of the tournament, strengthening his position in the race for the Golden Boot.
Cape Verde responded in the second half, scoring in the 59th minute to level the match and force extra time after both teams remained tied at the end of regulation.
Just two minutes into extra time, Lisandro Martínez restored Argentina’s lead. However, Cape Verde refused to give up, with substitute Lopes Cabral equalising in the 103rd minute to keep their hopes alive.
With the match seemingly heading for penalties, Argentina secured a dramatic winner in the second half of extra time after Cape Verde scored an unfortunate own goal.
The victory sends Argentina into the Round of 16, where they will face Egypt as they continue their quest to successfully defend the World Cup title.
Despite the defeat, Cape Verde impressed in their maiden FIFA World Cup appearance, pushing the defending champions all the way before narrowly bowing out of the competition.
