Argentina defeated Cabo Verde 3-2 in extra time thanks to an own goal, advancing to the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
Forward Lionel Messi opened the scoring in the 29th minute after a pass from defender Lisandro Martínez. However, Cabo Verde's Deroi Duarte equalized.
In extra time, Lisandro Martínez scored again, but Cabo Verde defender Sidney Lopes Cabral leveled the score once more. In the 111th minute, defender Diney Borges turned the ball into his own net from a corner kick taken by Messi.
In the round of 16, Argentina will face Egypt. Earlier, Kursiv reported that Egypt defeated Australia on penalties to advance to the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup.
Argentina is considered one of the tournament's main favorites. Team leader Lionel Messi is performing at a high level in his last World Cup. Cabo Verde, on the other hand, participated in the World Cup for the first time and put up a worthy fight.
Throughout the match, Argentina dominated possession, but Cabo Verde was dangerous on counterattacks. Regular time ended 2-2, and in extra time, luck favored the Argentines.
Egypt defeated Australia on penalties to reach the round of 16. Egypt's main star, Mohamed Salah, is leading the team. The match between Argentina and Egypt is expected to be intense.
Other round of 16 matches of the 2026 World Cup are also full of interesting events. One of the tournament's main sensations was Cabo Verde's advancement from the group stage, and they showed a high level against Argentina.
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni praised the team's will to win. He said the players showed composure in difficult moments and achieved victory.
Cabo Verde head coach Pedro Brito was satisfied with the team's performance but not the result. He noted that playing against a strong team like Argentina is a great experience.
The match between Argentina and Egypt will take place in the coming days. This game generates great interest as both teams have strong squads.
Argentina aims to win the World Cup for the third time. The team's main pillar is Lionel Messi, who remains one of the tournament's best players.
For Cabo Verde, this World Cup was a historic event. They participated in the tournament for the first time and managed to advance from the group. The team's success reflects the development of African football.
The result of the match between Argentina and Egypt will affect the further fate of the tournament. The winner will advance to the quarterfinals and continue the fight for the world champion title.
Other round of 16 pairs of the 2026 World Cup are also being determined. The main favorites of the tournament are showing their game and proving their high level.
Argentina's victory gave the team confidence. Now they are preparing for the game against Egypt. This meeting will be a major event for football fans.