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Argentina Edge Cabo Verde in Five-Goal World Cup Thriller. (Image: Internet)
New Delhi: Defending champions Argentina booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 after a tense 3–2 extra-time victory over debutants Cabo Verde at Miami Stadium. The match, played early on July 4, tested Argentina’s resilience as Cabo Verde pushed the favourites to the limit.
Argentina started strongly and controlled possession in the opening half. Lionel Messi opened the scoring in the 29th minute with a calm finish after a well-timed pass from Lisandro Martínez. Despite continued pressure, Argentina were unable to extend their lead before halftime.
Cabo Verde defended in an organised shape and stayed within reach, gradually growing into the contest.
The debutants stunned Argentina in the 59th minute when Deroy Duarte finished a sharp counterattack to level the score at 1–1. The goal shifted momentum and forced Argentina into a more aggressive approach as Cabo Verde held firm under pressure.
Both sides created chances, but neither could find a winner in regular time.
The match exploded in extra time. Argentina regained the lead in the 92nd minute through Lisandro Martínez after a corner routine involving Alexis Mac Allister. However, Cabo Verde responded almost immediately, with Sidny Cabral scoring a spectacular curling strike in the 103rd minute to make it 2–2.
The decisive moment came in the 111th minute when sustained pressure from another set piece forced an own goal by Diney Borges, putting Argentina ahead 3–2.
Cabo Verde pushed relentlessly in the closing stages, but Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez produced a crucial save in stoppage time to preserve the lead. Despite disciplinary pressure and late attacks, Argentina held firm to secure qualification.
Cabo Verde exited the tournament with pride after a historic debut run, while Argentina advance to face Egypt in the next round in Atlanta.
