Argentina are through to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, but not before surviving one of the biggest scares of the tournament.
The reigning world champions needed 120 minutes to overcome a spirited Cabo Verde side, eventually winning 3-2 after extra time in Miami Gardens. Lionel Messi opened the scoring before Cabo Verde twice fought back, only for an own goal deep into extra time to end their historic World Cup run.
Messi Breaks the Deadlock
Argentina controlled possession from the opening whistle, enjoying 64% of the ball while completing more than 800 passes with remarkable accuracy.
Their dominance finally paid off in the 29th minute when Lionel Messi found the breakthrough to give Lionel Scaloni’s side a deserved 1-0 lead.
Despite controlling much of the first half, Argentina failed to extend their advantage, allowing Cabo Verde to remain within touching distance.
Cabo Verde Refuse to Back Down
The underdogs emerged after halftime with renewed belief.
Deroy Duarte stunned Argentina in the 59th minute, finishing a move created by Ryan Mendes to level the match at 1-1.
Cabo Verde defended courageously while continuing to threaten on the counterattack, forcing Argentina to introduce Julián Álvarez, Nicolás González and Leandro Paredes in search of a winner.
Neither side could find the decisive goal in normal time, sending the contest into extra time.
Extra Time Produces More Drama
Argentina regained the lead almost immediately after extra time began.
Lisandro Martínez rose to score in the 92nd minute from an Alexis Mac Allister delivery, seemingly putting the holders back in control.
But Cabo Verde produced another remarkable response.
Sidny Lopes Cabral equalised in the 103rd minute after being picked out by Yannick Semedo, silencing the Argentine supporters and bringing the upset back into play.
With penalties looming, fate intervened.
In the 111th minute, Diney Borges accidentally diverted the ball into his own net under pressure, handing Argentina a heartbreaking but decisive 3-2 advantage.
Argentina Hold Firm
Cabo Verde threw everything forward during the closing minutes, winning several corners and creating dangerous moments around Argentina’s penalty area.
However, the South Americans defended resolutely to preserve their lead and book their place in the Round of 16.
Match Statistics
- Final Score: Argentina 3-2 Cabo Verde (After Extra Time)
- Possession: Argentina 64% – 36% Cabo Verde
- Shots: Argentina 21 – 15 Cabo Verde
- Shots on Target: Argentina 10 – 5 Cabo Verde
- Corners: 8-8
- Pass Accuracy: Argentina 92% – 87% Cabo Verde
Goalscorers
Argentina
- Lionel Messi (29′)
- Lisandro Martínez (92′)
- Diney Borges (Own Goal, 111′)
Cabo Verde
- Deroy Duarte (59′)
- Sidny Lopes Cabral (103′)
What It Means
Argentina avoid one of the biggest shocks of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after being pushed to the limit by an outstanding Cabo Verde side.
While the holders progress, questions remain over their defensive vulnerability after surrendering the lead twice.
For Cabo Verde, the tournament ends in disappointment but also pride. They matched the defending champions for long spells and came within minutes of taking the match to penalties in what will be remembered as one of the World Cup’s most courageous performances.
Argentina vs Cabo Verde Preview: World Champions Begin Knockout Journey Against Tournament Surprise
Argentina begin the knockout phase of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Friday when they face tournament debutants Cabo Verde in the Round of 32 at Miami Stadium.
The reigning world champions have cruised through the group stage and enter the match as overwhelming favourites. Cabo Verde, however, have already exceeded expectations by reaching the knockout rounds and will be eager to extend their historic World Cup journey.
Pre-match projections give Argentina an 83% probability of winning in normal time, while Cabo Verde have a 5% chance, with a 12% probability that the match goes to extra time.
Argentina Chasing Another World Cup Crown
Argentina have looked every bit like defending champions throughout the tournament.
Combining defensive discipline with attacking flair, Lionel Scaloni’s side progressed through the group stage with confidence and consistency. Their ability to control possession while creating chances from multiple areas of the pitch has made them one of the strongest contenders for the title.
With momentum on their side, Argentina will aim to avoid any surprises and secure a comfortable passage into the Round of 16.
Cabo Verde Looking to Make More History
Simply reaching the knockout stage represents a landmark achievement for Cabo Verde.
The Blue Sharks have earned admiration through disciplined defending, relentless work rate and fearless performances against more established opponents. They know they will spend long periods without the ball but will hope to frustrate Argentina before looking for opportunities on the counterattack or from set pieces.
Nothing is expected of Cabo Verde, making them one of the tournament’s most dangerous underdogs.
Key Battle
The contest is likely to revolve around Argentina’s ability to break down Cabo Verde’s defensive block.
Argentina will dominate possession and patiently search for openings, while Cabo Verde will rely on compact defending and quick transitions whenever they regain the ball.
The longer Cabo Verde keep the score level, the more pressure shifts onto the favourites.
Prediction
Argentina possess superior quality across every area of the pitch and should have enough to progress comfortably if they play to their usual standard.
Cabo Verde’s organization may frustrate them early, but the world champions are expected to find the breakthrough and control the match.
Prediction: Argentina 3-0 Cabo Verde
