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Argentina survived a spirited challenge from Cape Verde to secure a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory in their Round of 32 clash in Miami on Friday, with Cristian Romero scoring the decisive goal to send the defending champions into the last 16.
The reigning world champions took the lead in the 28th minute when Lionel Messi finished a well-worked move after being picked out with a precise pass.
Cape Verde, playing in their first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout match, refused to be intimidated and drew level in the 58th minute through Deroy Duarte, whose clinical finish stunned the Argentine defence. With neither side able to find a winner in normal time, the match went into extra time.
Lisandro Martínez restored Argentina’s advantage early in the additional period with a powerful strike. However, Cape Verde responded once again as Sidny Lopes Cabral unleashed a spectacular long-range effort in the 103rd minute to make it 2-2 and set up a thrilling finale.
The decisive moment arrived in the 111th minute when Romero rose highest to head home a Messi corner, finally breaking Cape Verde’s resistance and sealing Argentina’s place in the Round of 16.
Cape Verde earned widespread admiration for their fearless display against one of the tournament favourites. After holding Spain to a goalless draw in the group stage, the African side once again demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination, pushing the defending champions to their limits.
Goalkeeper Vozinha was outstanding throughout the contest, producing several crucial saves, including denying Messi on multiple occasions, to keep his side in the match. Despite his heroics, Cape Verde’s memorable World Cup journey came to a heartbreaking end after one of the tournament’s most entertaining encounters.