Argentina Survive Cape Verde Scare to Reach World Cup Last 16

Defending champions Argentina booked their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after edging tournament debutants Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time in a dramatic Round of 32 clash on Friday.

Lionel Messi opened the scoring for Argentina in the 29th minute, but Cape Verde fought back through Deroy Duarte after the break. 

Lisandro Martínez restored Argentina’s lead early in extra time before Sidny Cabral equalised again for the African side. 

The match was finally decided when Cape Verde defender Diney Borges inadvertently turned the ball into his own net in the 111th minute, sending Argentina through with a 3-2 victory.

The result keeps Argentina’s title defence alive and sets up a Round of 16 meeting with Egypt national football team. 

Despite the defeat, Cape Verde earned widespread praise for an outstanding first-ever FIFA World Cup campaign, pushing one of the tournament favourites to the limit in one of the most entertaining knockout matches so far.

The match also marked another milestone for Messi, who extended his all-time World Cup appearance record, while Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni took charge of the national team for the 100th time.