2026 World Cup: Argentina Advances, Egypt Awaits in Round of 16

Defending champions Argentina narrowly advanced to the round of 16 in the 2026 World Cup, overcoming a resilient Cape Verde side 3-2 after extra time. The match, held at Miami Stadium on Saturday, July 4, Indonesian time, saw Argentina pushed to their limits by the tournament debutants. Lionel Messi put Argentina ahead in the 29th minute, marking his seventh goal of the tournament. However, Cape Verde, showing remarkable spirit, equalized through Deroy Duarte just before the hour mark. The match then went into extra time, where Lisandro Martinez scored a powerful goal in the 92nd minute to give Argentina a 2-1 lead. Cape Verde's fight was not over. Sidny Lopes Cabral netted a spectacular goal from outside the penalty box in the 103rd minute, leveling the score at 2-2. Just as the game seemed headed for a penalty shootout, an own goal by Cape Verde defender Diney Borges in the 111th minute, following a Christian Romero header from a corner, ultimately decided the contest. Despite dominating possession with 64% and registering 22 shots, Argentina struggled to break down Cape Verde's defense, which was anchored by an impressive performance from goalkeeper Vozinha. Cape Verde managed 13 attempts, five of which were on target. Argentina's victory sets them up for a round of 16 clash with Egypt, who defeated Australia in a penalty shootout. For Cape Verde, their historic first World Cup appearance ends in the round of 32, having earned plaudits for their teamwork and grit.

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Argentina had to work hard before securing a spot in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup.