Lionel Messi and Lisandro Martínez sparked a dramatic comeback as Argentina edged Cape Verde Islands 3-2 after extra time in a World Cup last-32 classic.
Summary
In a World Cup last-32 tie that defied all expectations, Argentina narrowly escaped elimination against a fearless Cape Verde Islands side, winning 3-2 after extra time. The match at an electric venue saw the reigning champions take an early lead through Lionel Messi, only for Cape Verde to fight back and force extra time. A dramatic own goal by D. Borges in the 111th minute ultimately decided the contest, sending Argentina through to the round of 16.
Cape Verde, appearing in their first World Cup knockout stage, showed no fear against the tournament favorites. They matched Argentina's intensity and created chances of their own, leaving the South Americans relieved to have advanced. The result keeps Argentina's perfect record in the group stage intact, but the performance raised questions about their defensive solidity.
Key Moments
The opening goal came in the 29th minute when Lionel Messi converted a pass from Lisandro Martínez to give Argentina a deserved lead. The goal was Messi's sixth of the tournament and showcased his trademark composure in front of goal. Argentina dominated possession and created several chances but failed to extend their lead before halftime.
Cape Verde equalized in the 59th minute through Deroy Duarte, who finished smartly after a pass from R. Mendes. The goal stunned Argentina and gave Cape Verde belief. As the match approached full time, it seemed destined for extra time, but Lisandro Martínez popped up in the 92nd minute to restore Argentina's lead with a header from A. Mac Allister's cross.
Extra time saw Cape Verde refuse to surrender. Sidny Lopes Cabral scored in the 103rd minute, assisted by Y. Semedo, to make it 2-2. The match appeared to be heading for penalties until a cruel twist: in the 111th minute, D. Borges turned the ball into his own net under pressure from a corner, handing Argentina the win.
Match Analysis
Argentina's possession-based approach dominated the statistics, with 64% ball possession and 843 passes completed at a 92% accuracy rate. However, their inability to kill off the game against a disciplined Cape Verde side exposed vulnerabilities. The visitors, who had only 36% possession, were efficient in transition and created several dangerous opportunities, particularly from set pieces.
Cape Verde's defensive organization frustrated Argentina for long periods. Despite having 22 total shots, Argentina only managed 10 on target, with Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha making eight saves. The expected goals (xG) data tells a story of Argentine dominance (2.15 vs 0.36), but Cape Verde's clinical finishing kept them in the game.
The match also saw two yellow cards: K. Lenini of Cape Verde in the 68th minute and G. Montiel of Argentina in the 115th minute. Both teams committed a similar number of fouls (13 for Argentina, 12 for Cape Verde), reflecting the physical intensity of the contest.
Player Performances
Lionel Messi was the standout performer, earning a 9.5 rating. He scored one goal, had six shots on target, and was a constant threat. His link-up play with Lisandro Martínez (9.2 rating, one goal, one assist) was pivotal. Rodrigo De Paul also impressed with a 7.6 rating and one key pass.
For Cape Verde, goalkeeper Vozinha was heroic with eight saves, earning an 8.2 rating. Sidny Lopes Cabral (7.5) and Deroy Duarte (7.2) both scored and troubled the Argentine defense. The team's resilience was admirable, and they will rue the own goal that ended their fairytale run.
Key Stats
- Argentina had 22 total shots to Cape Verde's 13, but only 10 on target (5 for Cape Verde).
- Passing accuracy: Argentina 92%, Cape Verde 86%.
- Corner kicks: Argentina 8, Cape Verde 7.
- Goalkeeper saves: Vozinha 8, Argentina's keeper 3.
- Expected goals: Argentina 2.15, Cape Verde 0.36.
What This Means
Argentina remain unbeaten in the tournament with a perfect record in the group stage (three wins, nine points, +7 goal difference). However, this performance will give their future opponents hope. Cape Verde, despite the loss, can hold their heads high after a historic campaign that saw them finish second in their group with three draws and a positive goal difference.
For Argentina, the pressure is now on to improve defensively. They have conceded two goals in a knockout match for the first time in this World Cup cycle. The own goal by Borges was fortunate, but relying on such luck will not be sustainable against stronger opponents.
What Happens Next
Argentina advance to the round of 16, where they will face the winner of another last-32 tie. Their next match will be a test of their championship credentials. Cape Verde exit the tournament with pride, having proven they belong on the world stage.
For more on Argentina's journey, visit their team page. Check the fixtures for upcoming matches and the standings for group updates.
