Argentina Advances Past Cape Verde to Face Egypt in World Cup Round of 16

Argentina, the reigning World Cup champions, narrowly avoided a major upset by defeating Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time in a dramatic match held in Miami during the Round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup. Cape Verde exited the tournament with pride after a heroic performance, while Lionel Messi and his teammates will face Egypt in the Round of 16.

With this victory, the "Albiceleste" secured their place in the Round of 16, where they are scheduled to meet Egypt next Tuesday in Atlanta.

Unexpected Challenge From Cape Verde

Argentina entered the match as heavy favorites to advance past Cape Verde, whose appearance in the knockout stage was a historic achievement. However, the "Blue Sharks" demonstrated from the opening minutes that they were not willing to be mere victims.

Veteran goalkeeper Vozinia sent an early message of defiance by calmly dribbling past Argentine striker Lautaro Martínez inside his penalty area, a moment that reflected the confidence with which Cape Verde played.

Messi Opens the Scoring

After a cautious start, captain Lionel Messi broke the deadlock in the 28th minute. He launched from an offside position, dribbled past a defender, and struck a left-footed shot that found the net.

This goal marked Messi's 20th in World Cup history and his seventh in the 2026 tournament, reclaiming the lead in the top scorers' chart ahead of Kylian Mbappé.

Despite Messi's contribution, Argentina appeared below their usual standard, lacking rhythm and speed, and failing to secure an early victory.

Cape Verde Refuses to Yield

In the 59th minute, Cape Verde capitalized on Argentina's decline to shock the defending champions. From a pass by captain Ryan Mendes, Deroi Duarte unleashed a cross-shot that beat goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, leveling the score at 1-1.

From that point on, goalkeeper Vozinia became the undisputed hero by making several crucial saves, including a close-range attempt by Messi and a direct free kick. Defender Lobish also intervened multiple times to clear danger.

In stoppage time, Argentina maintained heavy pressure, but Cape Verde's resilient defense and the goalkeeper's outstanding performance pushed the game into extra time.

Extra Time Drama

Argentina quickly regained the lead early in extra time. Defender Lisandro Martínez scored from a corner kick delivered by Messi in the 92nd minute.

Just as Argentina seemed poised to secure the win, Cape Verde added a new chapter to their remarkable story.

In the 103rd minute, Sydney Lobish Cabral fired a powerful shot from outside the penalty area that found the far corner, equalizing at 2-2.

Title Holders Secure Victory

In the 111th minute, Messi took another corner kick, which defender Cristian Romero headed towards goal. The ball deflected off defender Dini Borges and crossed the line, granting Argentina a 3-2 lead and the win to advance.

Cape Verde Exits With Honor

Despite their elimination, Cape Verde left a significant mark on this World Cup edition by playing courageously against one of the tournament favorites and forcing Argentina to expend all their energy to progress.

Argentina continues their World Cup journey but faces growing questions about their ability to defend the title as they prepare for a challenging Round of 16 match against Egypt.