Argentina narrowly avoided one of the biggest upsets in FIFA World Cup history after defeating Cape Verde 3-2 in an entertaining extra-time contest at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. The victory secured Argentina a place in the Round of 16, where they will face Egypt, who advanced after defeating Australia in a dramatic penalty shootout.
Lionel Messi gave Argentina the perfect start by scoring in the 29th minute. The goal marked his 20th FIFA World Cup goal, adding another remarkable achievement to his legendary international career. However, Cape Verde refused to back down and twice fought back to level the score, pushing the defending champions to their limits.
After the match ended level in normal time, Lisandro MartÃnez restored Argentina’s lead early in extra time. Cape Verde responded once again when Sidny Lopes Cabral produced a superb curling effort to make it 2-2. With penalties appearing inevitable, Argentina found the decisive breakthrough in the 111th minute when Diney Borges accidentally turned the ball into his own net while attempting to deal with pressure from Cristian Romero.
Cape Verde’s spirited display earned widespread praise despite the defeat. Ranked 65 places below Argentina in the FIFA rankings and representing a nation with just over half a million people, they came close to producing one of the greatest shocks in World Cup history. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni admitted that elimination would have been unthinkable, while Cape Verde captain Pico Lopes said his team’s performance proved that determination and belief can overcome huge odds.
Meanwhile, Egypt also celebrated a historic achievement after overcoming Australia 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time in Arlington, Texas. Hossam Abdelmaguid converted the winning penalty to secure Egypt’s first-ever victory in a FIFA World Cup knockout match.
Australia introduced experienced goalkeeper Maty Ryan shortly before the shootout in hopes of gaining an advantage, but he failed to stop any Egyptian penalties. Australia’s Harry Souttar and teenager Lucas Herrington both missed from the spot, allowing Egypt to progress.
Mohamed Salah described the victory as a historic moment for Egyptian football. Egypt will now meet Argentina in a highly anticipated Round of 16 clash, while their triumph also provided a rare success for African football after several other African nations exited earlier in the tournament.
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