FIFA World Cup 2026: Messi hails resilient Cabo Verde after Argentina survive extra-time scare to reach Round of 16

Defending champions Argentina secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 after a grueling 3-2 victory over tournament debutants Cabo Verde in Florida. The match required extra time, with Argentina being pushed to their limits by the resilient African side.

Lionel Messi was instrumental in Argentina's win, opening the scoring in regulation time and providing the corner for Cristian Romero's decisive extra-time goal. Despite his crucial contributions, Messi acknowledged the immense challenge posed by Cabo Verde. "We knew this would be a very tough match. In the World Cup, no one gives you anything for free," Messi told the media, adding, "Also, congratulations to Cape Verde for that great performance."

Cabo Verde, in their first-ever World Cup knockout appearance, started strongly, testing Argentina early. However, Messi broke the deadlock in the 29th minute with his seventh goal of the tournament. Argentina appeared comfortable until Cabo Verde's resurgence after halftime. Ryan Mendes set up Deroy Duarte, who scored Cabo Verde's first knockout-stage goal to level the match, stunning the reigning champions.

Veteran goalkeeper Vozinha made several crucial saves to deny Messi and force the game into extra time. Argentina regained the lead early in extra time through Lisandro Martinez, but Cabo Verde, showing remarkable determination, equalized again via Sidny Lopes Cabral's impressive strike. The decisive moment came when Messi's corner found Romero, whose header, with a slight deflection, sealed the victory for Argentina.

Cabo Verde came close to forcing penalties late in extra time, but a vital save from Argentina's Emiliano Martinez prevented another equalizer. While Argentina advances to face Egypt, Cabo Verde exits the tournament with widespread admiration for their impressive debut and for pushing the champions so close.

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We knew this would be a very tough match. In the World Cup, no one gives you anything for free. Now it's about resting, learning from today, and focusing on the next game. Also, congratulations to Cape Verde for that great performance.