By Crystal Ugoeze
Defending champions Argentina survived a major scare from World Cup debutants Cape Verde, edging them 3-2 after extra time in a thrilling Round of 32 clash on Friday to book a place in the last 16.
An own goal by Cape Verde defender Diney Borges in the second half of extra time proved decisive after Lionel Messi’s corner was headed goalward by Cristian Romero, sealing Argentina’s dramatic victory and setting up a last-16 meeting with Egypt in Atlanta.
Messi opened the scoring in the 29th minute with his seventh goal of the tournament after expertly controlling a long pass from Lisandro Martinez before firing into the roof of the net. It was also the Argentine captain’s 20th World Cup goal across six editions of the tournament.
Cape Verde, making their first-ever World Cup appearance, refused to be intimidated and equalised just before the hour mark through Deroy Duarte, who finished confidently after being picked out by captain Ryan Mendes.
Argentina restored their advantage early in extra time when Lisandro Martinez unleashed a powerful strike into the top corner. However, Cape Verde responded again as left-back Sidny Lopes Cabral curled a superb effort into the top corner in the 103rd minute to make it 2-2.
With penalties looming, Argentina found the winner in the 111th minute when Romero’s header from Messi’s corner deflected off Borges and crossed the line, ending the spirited resistance of the African side.
Cape Verde nearly forced another equaliser, but goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez produced a fine save to deny Lopes Cabral’s late free-kick.
Ranked 67th in the world, Cape Verde exited the tournament with their heads held high after an outstanding debut campaign. The Blue Sharks twice came from behind against the three-time world champions and impressed with their organisation, resilience and attractive passing football.
Kevin Pina was one of Cape Verde’s standout performers, while goalkeeper Vozinha made several crucial saves to frustrate Argentina, including denying Messi from open play and a trademark free-kick.
Argentina progress to the Round of 16, where they will face Egypt in one of the standout knockout ties of the tournament.