Argentina vs. Cape Verde 3-2 (AET): Holders scrape through to World Cup last 16 after epic battle

Argentina secured their place in the World Cup round of 32 with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Cape Verde in extra time, in a match that exceeded all expectations. Held in Florida, the game saw the African underdogs challenge the reigning world champions throughout.

Lionel Messi opened the scoring for Argentina in the 28th minute with his seventh goal of the tournament. However, Cape Verde equalized in the 59th minute through N. Duarte, sending the match into extra time after a 1-1 draw in regular time.

In extra time, Lisandro Martínez put Argentina back in front in the 93rd minute. But Cape Verde, showing remarkable resilience, equalized again in the 103rd minute with a spectacular goal from L. Cabral. The decisive moment came in the 111th minute when Dini scored an own goal under pressure from Cristian Romero, finalizing the 3-2 scoreline.

The match featured strong performances from both sides, with Cape Verde's goalkeeper Vozinha making several key saves. MVP of the match was awarded to Lisandro Martínez for his contributions. Argentina will now face Egypt in the next stage.