Argentina Survive Cape Verde World Cup Scare
Argentina survived a major World Cup scare as Lionel Messi scored again before the defending champions edged Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time to reach the Round of 16.
Argentina Beat Cape Verde In Extra-Time Thriller
Argentina were pushed deep into extra time by World Cup debutants Cape Verde in a dramatic Round of 32 match in Miami. The defending champions took the lead through Lionel Messi in the 29th minute, but Cape Verde responded with a determined second-half display.
Deroy Duarte equalised just before the hour mark, forcing Argentina to work harder than expected against a disciplined and energetic Cape Verde side.
Lionel Messi Scores Seventh Tournament Goal
Messi’s opener was his seventh goal of the tournament and added to his remarkable World Cup record across six editions. Argentina, however, struggled to turn possession into control as Cape Verde defended compactly and attacked with confidence.
The match went into extra time after Cape Verde held firm through regulation time. Lisandro Martinez restored Argentina’s lead early in extra time with a powerful finish, but Sidny Lopes Cabral brought Cape Verde level again in the 103rd minute with a fine curling strike.
Cape Verde Exit World Cup With Pride
Argentina finally found the winner in the 111th minute when a Messi corner led to a decisive own goal after Cristian Romero’s header deflected off Cape Verde defender Diney Borges.
Cape Verde still had chances late in the match, with Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez making important saves to prevent another equaliser. Despite the defeat, Cape Verde’s first World Cup campaign ended with a strong performance against the reigning champions.
Argentina will now face Egypt in the Round of 16, with questions remaining over their defensive stability despite another decisive contribution from Messi.
