Messi Scores, Extra-Time Drama! Argentina Edge Cape Verde 3–2 in Thriller

2026 World Cup Round of 16: Argentina vs Cape Verde. In the first half of regular time, Lionel Messi latched onto a long pass from Lima and lifted a delicate chip over the goalkeeper to score, marking his 20th World Cup goal. In the second half, De Roy equalised for Cape Verde with a tight-angle nutmeg finish, bringing the score to 1–1. The match remained level after 90 minutes and went into extra time. In the 92nd minute of extra time, Lisandro Martínez put Argentina ahead with a powerful strike. In the 103rd minute, Cabral scored a stunning long-range equaliser. Then in the 111th minute, Romero scored an own goal under pressure from the opposition. Ultimately, Argentina survived a dramatic extra-time battle to defeat Cape Verde 3–2. They advance to the Round of 16, where they will face Egypt. World Cup debutants Cape Verde exit the tournament with their heads held high after a remarkable run.



29’ Goal No. 20! Messi calmly controls the ball before finishing, Argentina 1–0 Cape Verde


59’ Cape Verde equalise! De Roy scores from a tight angle with a nutmeg finish, Cape Verde 1–1 Argentina



62’ Big chance missed! Messi goes one-on-one but is denied by Wozinia



73’ Unbelievable save! Messi’s free kick is once again saved by the 40-year-old goalkeeper Wozinia



89’ Lopez contested a header in the box—suspected handball, but after VAR review, no penalty is awarded



92’ GOAL (92’)! Lisandro Martínez fires home a shot, Argentina 2–1 Cape Verde



103’ GOAL (103’)! Cabral scores a stunning long-range strike, Cape Verde level at 2–2



111’ DRAMA! Messi’s corner leads to a Borges own goal, Argentina 3–2 Cape Verde



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