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FIFA

Lionel Messi during Argentina-Cape Verde match. Photo: FIFA World Cup/X

Messi's Argentina survive Cape Verde scare in World Cup thriller, enter Round of 16

India Blooms News Service | @indiablooms | Jul 04, 2026, at 10:44 am

Miami/IBNS: Argentina survived a major scare from Cape Verde to secure a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory and book their place in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Lionel Messi put the defending champions ahead in the 29th minute with a trademark finish.

This angle of Messi’s goal is insane ! pic.twitter.com/LM7Bwr7FJG
— ️ (@Priceless_MCI) July 3, 2026

However, World Cup debutants Cape Verde drew level just before the hour mark through Deroy Duarte, forcing the contest into extra time.

Argentina restored their lead in the 92nd minute through Lisandro Martínez, but Sidny Cabral equalised again in the 103rd minute to keep Cape Verde's hopes alive.

Oh my days, Deroy Duarte of Cape Verde stuns the World Champions!

The whole world wants Cape Verde to win! Believe me, if it goes to penalties, then Vozinha is the hero! #CaboVerde #Argentina pic.twitter.com/Etw4qhvawe
— The Final Whistle (@Rufus_45) July 3, 2026

The decisive moment came in the 111th minute when a Messi corner resulted in an own goal by Diney Borges, sealing a hard-fought 3-2 win for the reigning world champions.

Despite the defeat, Cape Verde won widespread praise for pushing Argentina to the limit with a fearless display.

Cabo Verde what a goal!!!! pic.twitter.com/DZKMK422Pb
— RODRYGO (@NotRodrygo) July 4, 2026

Messi also reached another milestone by scoring his 20th FIFA World Cup goal, extending his record tally in the competition.

Argentina will now face Egypt in the Round of 16.

#Argentina vs Cape Verde # Argentina Cape Verde World Cup # Lionel Messi # Messi World Cup # FIFA World Cup 2026 # Argentina Round of 16 # Cape Verde FIFA World Cup # Argentina 3-2 Cape Verde # Lisandro Martinez # Deroy Duarte # Sidny Cabral # Diney Borges own goal # Argentina football # World Cup knockout stage # Egypt vs Argentina

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