FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina Defeats Cape Verde 3-2 After Extra Time, Reaches Pre-Quarterfinals
Argentina Qualifies for FIFA World Cup 2026 Pre-Quarterfinals
MIAMI: Argentina secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Cape Verde after extra time in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32, earning a place in the tournament’s pre-quarterfinals.
The match delivered high drama as Cape Verde, making its first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance, pushed the defending South American giants to the limit before narrowly falling short.
Messi Opens the Scoring
Argentina took the lead in the 29th minute through captain Lionel Messi, who netted his seventh goal of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The goal gave Argentina a deserved first-half advantage.
Cape Verde responded with determination and equalized in the 59th minute through Duarte, making it 1-1.
Argentina created several scoring opportunities in the second half, but Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha produced impressive saves to keep his side in the contest.
Extra Time Produces More Drama
With the score level after regular time, the match entered extra time.
Argentina regained the lead in the 92nd minute when Lisandro Martínez found the back of the net.
Cape Verde refused to give up. Sydney Cabrera scored a superb equalizer to make it 2-2, setting up another dramatic finish.
Late in extra time, Cape Verde defender Danny Borges accidentally turned the ball into his own net, handing Argentina a 3-2 lead.
Despite heavy pressure in the closing minutes, Argentina successfully defended the advantage and secured qualification.
Argentina to Face Egypt Next
With the victory, Argentina advanced to the FIFA World Cup 2026 pre-quarterfinals, where they will meet Egypt on July 7.
Football fans around the world are eagerly awaiting a potential showdown between Lionel Messi and Mohamed Salah, making it one of the tournament’s most anticipated fixtures.
Match Summary
- Result: Argentina 3-2 Cape Verde (After Extra Time)
- Round: FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32
- Venue: Miami, USA
- Argentina Goals: Lionel Messi, Lisandro Martínez, Own Goal (Danny Borges)
- Cape Verde Goals: Duarte, Sydney Cabrera
- Next Match: Argentina vs Egypt – July 7
