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Argentina holds off Cape Verde in thrilling World Cup match

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 4, 2026, 2:01 AM

Last updated Jul 4, 2026

Argentina holds off Cape Verde in thrilling World Cup match

Summary

Argentina faced Cape Verde in a dramatic round of 32 match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Miami on July 3. The defending champions secured a 3-2 victory after extra time, with Lionel Messi scoring his 20th World Cup goal. Cape Verde displayed remarkable resilience, equalizing multiple times before Argentina regained the lead through an own goal off Diney Borges. Analysts praised Cape Verde's effort as one of the most memorable in tournament history.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Match took place on July 3 in Miami.
•Lionel Messi scored his 20th World Cup goal.
•Cape Verde equalized twice during the match.
•Argentina's game-winning goal came from an own goal.
•The match highlighted Cape Verde's strong debut performance.

Latest Updates

2:01 AMYahoo Sports — Listen: Fox, Telemundo calls of Argentina-Cape Verde World Cup instant classic

What they're saying

"
Lionel Messi and World Cup defending champion Argentina held off an absolutely remarkable effort from massive underdog Cape Verde in the 2026 FIFA World Cup’s round of 32 on Friday evening in Miami. It was one of the most stunning, entertaining matches in World Cup history, and Cape Verde came very close to delivering one…
— Yahoo Sports

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