Defending champions Argentina cruised into the Round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup 2026 following a hard-fought 3-2 win over Cabo Verde.
Mercurial striker Lionel Messi opened the scoring in the 29th minute after controlling a long pass from Lisandro Martínez.
Cabo Verde responded in the 59th minute through a goal from central midfielder Deroy Duarte, which silenced thousands of Argentine spectators.
Cabo Verde goalkeeper Vozinha made several stunning saves, sending the game into extra time.
However, the South American giants retook the lead in the 92nd minute after Martínez beat Vozinha to find the net.
But left-back Lopes Cabral levelled the scores in the 103rd minute with a stunning strike, which could be one of the contenders for the goal of the tournament.
Eventually, Argentina won the match after Messi’s corner touched Diney Borges, who unfortunately put the ball into his own net.
Argentina will take on Egypt in the Round of 16 in Atlanta on July 6.
Earlier, Egypt defeated Australia 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a thrilling 1-1 draw in Dallas.
Emam Ashour’s sharp header in the 13th minute put Egypt ahead, but Australia equalised in the 55th minute thanks to an own goal from Mohamed Hany. The match was eventually decided by a penalty shootout, which Egypt won.
Mohamed Salah was named the Superior Player of the Match. It was Egypt’s first knockout win at the FIFA World Cup finals.
Meanwhile, unbeaten Colombia reached the Round of 16 with a narrow 1-0 win over Ghana at Kansas City Stadium.
Jhon Arias scored the only goal of the match in the 14th minute. Colombia will play Switzerland on July 7 in Vancouver.
