Defending champions Argentina booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 after edging World Cup debutants Cape Verde 3-2 in a thrilling extra-time contest.
Lionel Messi gave Argentina the lead with his seventh goal of the tournament, strengthening his bid for the Golden Boot. Cape Verde responded after the break, levelling in the 59th minute to force extra time.
Lisandro Martínez restored Argentina’s lead just two minutes into extra time, but Cape Verde refused to back down as substitute Lopes Cabral struck in the 103rd minute to make it 2-2.
With a penalty shootout looming, Argentina sealed victory through a late Cape Verde own goal, ending the Blue Sharks’ remarkable World Cup journey.
Although eliminated, Cape Verde earned widespread praise after pushing the reigning champions to the limit in their first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance. Argentina will now face Egypt in the Round of 16 as Lionel Scaloni’s men continue their title defence