Argentina vs Cape Verde: Messi Leads Champions Into World Cup Round of 16
Lionel Messi scores another historic World Cup goal as Argentina survives a spirited Cape Verde fightback with a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory.
Lionel Messi celebrates after scoring during Argentina's dramatic World Cup victory over Cape Verde.
Argentina vs Cape Verde delivered one of the most thrilling matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the defending champions edged the tournament debutants 3-2 after extra time to secure a place in the Round of 16.
Lionel Messi opened the scoring before Lisandro Martínez restored Argentina’s lead in extra time. A late own goal ultimately proved decisive after Cape Verde twice fought back to level the contest.
Argentina took control in the 29th minute when Messi collected a long pass, beat his marker, and calmly finished to score his 20th FIFA World Cup goal. The strike also extended his record by scoring in eight consecutive World Cup matches.
Cape Verde refused to surrender and equalized just before the hour mark through Deroy Duarte after captain Ryan Mendes created the opportunity with a clever attacking move.
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Despite repeated pressure from Argentina, Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha produced a series of outstanding saves to deny Messi from free kicks and open play, keeping his side level throughout normal time.
After 90 minutes ended 1-1, the match moved into extra time.
Argentina regained the lead almost immediately when Lisandro Martínez fired home following a corner delivered by Messi and a headed assist from Nicolás Tagliafico.
Cape Verde responded once again through Sidny Cabral Lopes, who scored a stunning long-range strike into the top corner beyond Emiliano Martínez. His spectacular goal and emotional celebration with supporters became one of the standout moments of the tournament.
With penalties looming, Argentina finally found the decisive breakthrough. A dangerous attack resulted in a Cape Verde defender turning the ball into his own net, sealing a dramatic 3-2 victory for La Albiceleste.
The result ended Cape Verde’s remarkable debut World Cup campaign. Ranked 67th in the FIFA rankings before the tournament, the Blue Sharks exceeded expectations by reaching the knockout stage unbeaten, including a memorable clean sheet against Spain.
Argentina, meanwhile, continues its title defense and advances to the Round of 16 after surviving one of its toughest tests of the competition.
Messi once again played a decisive role, while goalkeeper Vozinha earned widespread praise for one of the finest individual goalkeeping performances of the tournament despite his team’s elimination.
