World Cup 2026: Argentina survive Cape Verde scare to reach Round of 16 (3-2 AET)
Argentina were taken to the wire by a spirited Cape Verde side before eventually prevailing 3-2 after extra time. Messi opened the scoring but the Sharks equalized twice before Romero's deflected header secured a dramatic win.
Argentina's World Cup defence nearly came to a stunning end as Cape Verde pushed the reigning champions all the way before going down 3-2 in extra time in one of the most dramatic games of the tournament.
Messi breaks the deadlock
Lionel Messi continued to extend his World Cup scoring record by putting Argentina ahead in the first half, with the Albicelestes appearing to be in control of proceedings.
Duarte stuns Argentina before half-time
Cape Verde refused to be overawed. Deroy Duarte levelled just before the break in a moment that sent shockwaves through the stadium and reminded the world that no game is ever over against the Sharks.
Martínez, then Lopes Cabral — the drama continues
Lisandro Martínez restored Argentina's lead, but Cape Verde hit back again through a stunning long-range curler from Sidny Lopes Cabral that made it 2-2 and sent the match into extra time.
Romero ends the Sharks' dream
With the game in extra time, Messi's corner found Cristian Romero, whose header deflected off Diney Borges and crept into the net to give Argentina a 3-2 lead they would not relinquish. The champions survive.
Cape Verde exit with heads held high
Cape Verde leave the 2026 World Cup having given Argentina the fright of their tournament. Their performance will be remembered as one of the great underdog displays in World Cup history.
