A Night of Drama in Miami
Argentina needed an extra‑time own goal to edge past Cape Verde 3‑2 and clinch a spot in the World Cup last 16, a result that kept their tournament hopes alive.
The match, played under the bright lights of Miami, was a roller‑coaster of emotions, with both sides trading blows and the lead changing hands multiple times.
Cape Verde, making their debut on football’s biggest stage, showed remarkable resilience, twice coming from behind to level the score and force the game into additional minutes.
Messi’s Early Strike
Lionel Messi opened the scoring in the 29th minute, his seventh goal of the tournament, sending the Argentine bench into celebration.
The veteran forward’s effort was a reminder of his enduring impact, even as the team leaned on younger talents to maintain momentum.
Deroy Duarte responded shortly before the hour mark, restoring parity and underscoring Cape Verde’s fighting spirit.
Extra‑Time Twists
In the second minute of extra time, Lisandro Martinez struck with a sumptuous shot that put Argentina back in front, only for Sidny Lopes Cabral to answer with a beautiful strike into the top corner in the 103rd minute.
Goalkeeper Vozinha made a series of crucial saves, keeping the contest alive and frustrating Argentina’s attempts to pull away.
Among the Cape Verde side, libero Kevin Pina stood out for long periods, orchestrating the defense with composure.
Messi later had a chance to restore the lead, but Vozinha’s reflexes denied him, leaving the score level as the match approached its climax.
Ultimately, Argentina’s narrow victory was sealed by the own goal, sending them through while Cape Verde departed as heroes of their maiden World Cup campaign.