FIFA World Cup 2026: Holders Argentina survive Cape Verde's fightback to reach last-16

Cabo Verde gave the reigning champions Argentina an almighty scare but Lionel Scalonis team prevailed with a 32 victory in 124 minutes here at the Miami Stadium on Saturday and will face Egypt in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World CupThe Blue Sharks pushed Lionel Messi and Co all the way they came from behind twice to level Even when Argentina went 32 up they battled tirelessly for a third equaliser but the defending champions dug deep to triumphFor the first 15 minutes Argentina dominated possession patiently moving the ball from side to side searching for an opening that could lead to the first goal A fluid passing sequence found Lionel Messi inside the box but his shot from a tight angle sailed wide of the left postBut he got his revenge in the 29th minute of the first half when Lisandro Martiacutenez saw him make a run and delivered a precise pass for Messi who made it 10 Messi has now scored in a recordextending eight successive matches in the FIFA World CupBefore halftime Enzo Fernandez received the ball at the edge of the area and shot from midrange but goalkeeper Vozinha responded to maintain the resultAt the start of the second half Cape Verde had a clear chance with a longrange shot from Deroy Duarte which was well saved by Emiliano Martinez But Duarte would also have a second opportunity with a low driven shot across the box he made it 11Argentina kept pressing Lautaro Martiacutenez flicked the ball on laid it off firsttime to Messi but Leo lost the oneonone against Vozinha Minutes later the Cape Verdean goalkeeper was called into action again this time saving a free kick from Messi that was heading for his left postWith 10 minutes remaining a wellworked team move culminated in a precise cutback from Molina which was intercepted by Roberto Lopes just as Enzo Fernandez was waiting to tap it in from close range Then in stoppage time Vozinha was called into action again after another Messi free kick the goalkeeper managed to save it despite a deflectionWith the score tied 11 Argentina and Cape Verde had to decide their fate in extra time After a corner kick from the left Lisandro Martiacutenez controlled the ball at the far post and finished to make it 21Cape Verde refused to buckle since Lisandro Martinezs goal and Lopes Cabral equalised in spectacular fashion before the end of the first half of extra time But their dream finally ran ashore as a Messi corner caused an own goal that saw Argentina through to the last 16Argentina will take on Egypt in the next roundThis story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed agencies Midday accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability trustworthiness reliability and data of the text Midday managementmiddaycom reserves the sole right to alter delete or remove without notice the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever