MIAMI, United States — July 4, 2026
Argentina vs Cabo Verde FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina Escapes Major Upset to Reach Round of 16
Argentina vs Cabo Verde FIFA World Cup 2026 produced one of the tournament’s most dramatic knockout matches, with defending champion Argentina narrowly avoiding a stunning upset by defeating World Cup debutant Cabo Verde 3-2 after extra time. A late own goal proved decisive as Argentina booked its place in the Round of 16, where it will face Egypt.
The thrilling Round of 32 clash at Miami Stadium remained level until deep into extra time, as Cabo Verde delivered a fearless performance that pushed one of the tournament favorites to its limits.
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Messi Gives Argentina an Early Advantage
Argentina captain Lionel Messi opened the scoring in the 29th minute, finishing confidently to give the defending champions a 1-0 lead before halftime.
Despite controlling possession for long stretches of the opening half, Argentina found it difficult to break down Cabo Verde’s disciplined defense.
Cabo Verde Refuses to Back Down
Cabo Verde responded immediately after the break when Deroy Duarte equalized in the 59th minute, silencing the Argentine supporters and bringing the match level at 1-1.
The African side continued to defend resolutely while creating dangerous counterattacks, forcing the match into extra time after neither team could find a winner during regulation.
Making its first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance, Cabo Verde impressed throughout the contest with its organization, determination, and attacking intent against one of international football’s strongest teams.
Extra Time Delivers More Drama
Argentina regained the lead in the 92nd minute through Lisandro Martínez, who capitalized on sustained pressure early in extra time.
However, Cabo Verde once again refused to surrender. Sidney Lopes Cabral scored in the 103rd minute, leveling the match at 2-2 and setting up a tense final period of extra time.
With both teams searching for a decisive goal, Messi nearly created the breakthrough from a corner in the 111th minute. During the resulting play, Cabo Verde defender Dine Borges inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, giving Argentina a heartbreaking but crucial 3-2 advantage.
Cabo Verde launched several late attacks during the closing minutes, including opportunities in the 116th and 120th minutes, but Argentina held firm to secure victory.
Emotional End to an Inspiring Campaign
The final whistle brought contrasting emotions. Argentina celebrated its escape from one of the biggest potential upsets of the FIFA World Cup 2026, while several Cabo Verde players were overcome with emotion after seeing their historic tournament run come to an end.
Although eliminated in the Round of 32, Cabo Verde earned widespread praise for pushing the defending champions to the brink. Without the decisive own goal, the outcome could have been very different.
Argentina Advances to Face Egypt
Argentina now advances to the Round of 16, where it will meet Egypt in another highly anticipated knockout fixture. While the reigning champions remain in contention to defend their title, their narrow escape against Cabo Verde highlighted the increasing competitiveness of the tournament and served as a reminder that every knockout match presents a unique challenge.
