Sport: Soccer Country: Spain Category: Scores & Results

Argentina advances after extra time scare against Cape Verde in World Cup

The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 4, 2026, 12:51 AM

Last updated Jul 4, 2026

Argentina advances after extra time scare against Cape Verde in World Cup

Summary

Argentina defeated Cape Verde 3-2 in an intense World Cup match on July 3, 2026, to reach the Round of 16. Lionel Messi opened the scoring with his 20th career World Cup goal in the 29th minute. Cape Verde's Sidny Lopes Cabral and Deroy Duarte equalized twice, but Lisandro Martinez's goal in the 103rd minute and an own goal by Cape Verde's Diney Borges secured Argentina's victory. The match highlighted Cape Verde's impressive tournament debut, featuring standout performances from goalkeeper Vozinha, who made 10 saves. Argentina's next challenge is a matchup against Egypt on July 7, 2026.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Messi scored his 20th World Cup goal in the 29th minute.
•Cape Verde reached the knockout round in their first World Cup.
•Argentina faces Egypt in the Round of 16 on July 7, 2026.
•Vozinha had 10 saves, including five against Messi.
•Martinez's goal and an own goal sealed Argentina's victory.

Latest Updates

1:06 AMThe Guardian Sport — Cape Verde threaten shock for the ages before Argentina break hearts in World Cup classic
12:51 AMYahoo Sports — Messi scores again but Argentina given World Cup upset fright by Cape Verde

What they're saying

"
Argentina were given a huge scare before ending Cape Verde’s fairytale run as Lionel Messi netted his 20th World Cup goal in a 3-2 win after extra time to reach the last 16. Messi’s sublime control and finish for his seventh goal at this tournament in four games put the defending champions in command, but the Blue Sharks doggedly refused to go away. Continue reading...
— The Guardian Sportby AFP