Argentina Advances to World Cup Round of 16 After Grueling Win Over Cape Verde

Argentina secured a spot in the 2026 World Cup round of 16 after a dramatic 3-2 victory over Cape Verde in Miami, but the path was far from easy. The reigning world champions needed 120 minutes to overcome the African underdogs, a match that tested the team’s resilience and left the Argentine camp both relieved and reflective. Captain Lionel Messi acknowledged the team’s struggles, admitting they lost control during the game despite his early goal. "We couldn’t press as we wanted, and the distances between our lines were too large," Messi said, noting Cape Verde’s ability to create numerical advantages and force Argentina to chase the ball.

Messi praised the team’s persistence and highlighted their success in set pieces, which ultimately decided the match. He also complimented Cape Verde’s performance, calling it a tough opponent that had previously avoided draws against Spain and Uruguay. Coach Lionel Scaloni described the game as one of the most intense of his tenure, marking his 100th match as Argentina’s coach. He emphasized the team’s character and determination, especially after conceding goals, and acknowledged the physical toll of the extra time, with players suffering cramps and no substitutions left.

Messi was central to Argentina’s win, scoring the opening goal and contributing to the two decisive goals in extra time, including a corner leading to Lisandro Martínez’s goal and a free kick resulting in an own goal by Cape Verde’s Dini Borges. Looking ahead, Argentina will face Egypt in the round of 16, a team that advanced by defeating Australia on penalties. The Argentine team hopes to show a stronger performance in their next match after narrowly escaping elimination against Cape Verde.