The Argentina national team was forced to work extra hard when facing tough resistance from Cape Verde in the 2026 World Cup round of 32 match held at Miami Stadium on Saturday (4/7/26). La Albiceleste finally sealed their spot in the round of 16 after winning a dramatic duel with a final score of 3-2 in extra time.
Lionel Messi opened up hopes for Argentina with a clinical finish after receiving a measured pass from Lisandro Martinez. However, a solid performance by Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, who repeatedly denied golden opportunities from Messi and Nico Gonzalez, kept the match tight until the score stood at a 1-1 draw in normal time.
Entering extra time, the intensity of the match increased. Argentina retook the lead through a goal from Lisandro Martinez in the 93rd minute, taking advantage of a goalmouth scramble from a corner kick situation. Although Cape Verde equalized again through a curling strike by Sidny Lopes Cabral, Argentina finally sealed the victory via an own goal by Diney Borges in the 112th minute following chaos in front of the goal triggered by a set-piece execution from captain Lionel Messi.
This narrow victory stands as proof of the mental resilience of Lionel Scaloni's squad, who stayed calm under immense pressure throughout the 120 minutes of the match. This result carries Argentina further into the next round, while Cape Verde can head home with their heads held high after delivering an impressive performance against one of the tournament favorites.
