Argentina reached the World Cup last 16 after a dramatic 3-2 extra‑time win over Cape Verde, who ended their debut tournament with immense pride. The champions dominated early possession, repeatedly testing Vozinha, whose outstanding saves kept the underdogs alive. Messi eventually broke through with a sharp finish on 28 minutes, though Fernandez was later denied by the inspired goalkeeper. Cape Verde responded bravely after the interval, equalising when Duarte’s drive deflected off Lisandro Martinez to beat Emiliano Martinez.
Argentina pushed hard, but Vozinha thwarted Messi again before a late VAR check dismissed a penalty appeal. Extra time delivered more twists: Lisandro Martinez restored Argentina’s lead from a corner, only for Sidny to level with a superb strike. With penalties looming, a Romero header deflected off Diney Borges for the decisive goal. Cape Verde exit after pushing the world champions to their limit and earning global admiration.