Argentina and Cape Verde met in a high‑stakes World Cup last‑32 encounter that stretched to extra time, with the South Americans emerging 3‑2 victors.
Lionel Messi opened the scoring for Argentina, coolly slotting the ball past the Cape Verdean keeper to give his side an early advantage.
Deroy Duarte responded for Cape Verde in the 59th minute, leveling the match and prompting a surge of pressure from the African side.
Lisandro Martinez restored the lead for Argentina from a corner in the dying moments of extra time, his header finding the net to put the Albiceleste ahead again.
Sidny Cabral answered minutes later, striking in the 103rd minute to force a second dead‑lock and keep the contest alive.
The Own Goal That Sealed the Deal
The decisive moment arrived in the 111th minute when Cristian Romero’s header was inadvertently redirected by Diney Borges, resulting in an own goal that handed Argentina a 3‑2 triumph.
With the victory secured, Argentina now turns its focus to a showdown against Egypt in the round of 16, a fixture that promises another test of endurance and skill.