Messi Inspires Argentina as Brave Cape Verde Bow Out Fighting

Defending champions Argentina overcame a determined Cape Verde side with a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory to secure a place in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup in the United States.

The victory sets up a Round of 16 clash with African representatives Egypt after Argentina edged past the resilient Blue Sharks in a thrilling contest.
Cape Verde, making their World Cup debut, proved to be one of the tournament’s surprise teams, twice coming from behind to level the scores before eventually conceding a late winner.
Lionel Messi gave Argentina the lead in the 29th minute, brilliantly controlling a looping pass before calmly finishing. Although Argentina dominated much of the opening half, they were unable to add to their advantage and went into the break leading 1-0.
Cape Verde returned after halftime with renewed purpose and deservedly equalised through Duarte, putting the defending champions under pressure. Despite creating several chances, Argentina could not restore their lead during regulation time.
Just two minutes into extra time, Lautaro Martínez put Argentina back in front, delighting their supporters.
Cape Verde, however, refused to give up. In the 111th minute, they equalised once again with a stunning long-range strike that left the Argentine goalkeeper with no chance.
With penalties looming, Argentina produced one final decisive moment. Playmaker Romero met a perfectly delivered corner from Messi with a powerful header to seal a hard-fought 3-2 victory.
The win keeps Argentina’s title defence alive, while Messi remains the tournament’s leading scorer with seven goals. Cape Verde exit the competition with pride after an impressive debut World Cup campaign that earned widespread admiration for their resilience and attacking style of play