Darous Duarte Scores Against Argentina and Will Face Hapoel Tel Aviv in Conference League Qualifiers

Darous Duarte, a 27-year-old winger from Cape Verde, scored a crucial goal against Argentina in the 2026 World Cup knockout stage, sending the match into extra time. Despite Cape Verde eventually losing 2-3 to the reigning world champions, Duarte's performance stood out as he played in all of Cape Verde's World Cup matches and impressed with his speed, dribbling skills, and ability to use both feet. His goal came from a well-executed run into the box, scoring from a difficult angle past Argentina's goalkeeper, Dibu Martinez. This made him the second player to score against Argentina in the tournament and the first to do so against their strongest starting lineup. English commentators praised Duarte for making the game exciting and noted it as a moment he will remember for life.

Duarte currently plays for Ludogorets, having joined the club in 2024, and is valued at 1.7 million euros. He was a key player alongside Israeli midfielder Idan Nahmias last season. Notably, Duarte had previously declined to play for the senior Dutch national team due to family pressure, despite representing their youth teams. Looking ahead, Duarte is set to face Hapoel Tel Aviv in the UEFA Conference League qualifiers, where his recent World Cup form could be a significant asset. Israeli coach Barak Yitzhaki has been mentioned as a potential coach for both players during the upcoming season.