Argentina edges past Cabo Verde 3-2 in extra time; Messi praises debut team's fight
Defending World Cup champions Argentina narrowly survived a scare against debutants Cabo Verde, winning 3-2 in extra time to reach the Round of 16. Lionel Messi scored but acknowledged the African nation's spirited challenge pushed his side to their limits.
Argentina's defence of their FIFA World Cup 2026 title faced an unexpectedly stern test on Tuesday as they scraped past Cabo Verde 3-2 in extra time to advance to the Round of 16. The South American powerhouses, arriving in Qatar as defending champions, found themselves struggling against the World Cup debutants in a match that could have produced one of the tournament's biggest shocks.
Lionel Messi gave Argentina an early lead with a typical clinical finish, but Cabo Verde's spirited performance saw them fight back twice during regular play, forcing the match into extra time. The African side's resilience and tactical discipline kept Argentina on their toes throughout, with the defending champions unable to establish the kind of dominance expected from their star-studded squad. An own goal ultimately proved decisive in securing Argentina's passage, though the manner of victory underscored just how competitive this World Cup has become.
Post-match, Messi reflected on the narrow escape and paid tribute to Cabo Verde's determined showing. The Argentine legend acknowledged that his team had anticipated a difficult encounter but admitted they had been pushed harder than expected. He praised Cabo Verde's spirited display and their willingness to compete at the highest level, noting that debutant teams often bring an element of unpredictability and hunger that can trouble even the most experienced sides. Messi's words suggested respect for an opponent that could have written one of football's great World Cup fairy tales.
The victory maintains Argentina's unbeaten record in the tournament and keeps them on track for another deep run. However, the struggle against Cabo Verde will likely prompt soul-searching within the Argentine camp about their performance levels. With stronger opposition awaiting in the knockout stages, this match serves as a warning that complacency could prove costly. The win extends Messi's scoring record at World Cups, adding another chapter to his legendary tournament history.
Argentina will now prepare for their Round of 16 fixture with their confidence tested but ultimately intact. The result demonstrates that even the most accomplished teams can be troubled by well-organised opposition, and suggests that this World Cup cycle remains wide open. For Cabo Verde, despite the defeat, their brave performance will be remembered as a creditable showing on their maiden World Cup stage.
