Argentina survived one of the biggest threats in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Cape Verde 3-2 in extra time in the dramatic Round of 32. Lionel Messi scored another World Cup goal, but the defenders were pushed to the limit by a fearless Cape Verde team that refused to back down.Even when Argentina booked their place in the Round of 16, the controversy did not end even after the final whistle. Supporters instead flooded social media with admiration for Cape Verde’s performance, saying the tournament’s newcomers deserve international respect despite their disappointment.
Cape Verde pushed the defending champions to the brink in an unforgettable tournament
Many expected Argentina to take part in the next round after Messi opened the scoring with his 20th World Cup goal. Instead, Cape Verde responded with surprising determination. Deroy Duarte brought his team back in the second half before Lisandro Martinez restored Argentina’s lead in extra time.Just after the end of the game, Sidny Lopes Cabral made a stunning shot that left the fans in disbelief and tied the game again. Argentina secured the win after a corner kick ended in their own goal by Diney Borge, but Cape Verde continued to attack until the final whistle and almost forced penalties.The result sent Argentina into the Round of 16, but many observers felt that line only told part of the story. Cape Verde, playing in its first knockout match at the World Cup, matched one of football’s greatest powers with grit, composure, and belief for more than 120 minutes.
Fans applaud Cape Verde as they criticize Argentina after a thrilling victory
Supporters praised midfielder Vozinha, who made several key saves against Messi and frustrated defenders all night.One fan wrote, “100% driving right. Vozinha is Argentina and Messi.” Another supporter agreed with Cape Verde’s behavior saying, “I feel that the Cape Verde team can beat Portugal any day.”Several fans also pointed out how Argentina struggled in the tournament. Another post said, “Argentina needs extra time and 2 corners to beat Cabo Verde” Many fans believe that the result was less than Cape Verde. One fan wrote, “Argentina won the game but Cape Verde won our hearts.”Some used the game to criticize those in power. One of the other virals said, “They are very proud of them. They exposed a group of frauds.” Another moving message showed how Cape Verde’s inspirational movement has changed the world’s minds. The follower wrote, “The world is very proud of Cape Verdean players and I hope more people around the world will know this country. They rocked the entire football world and proved the doubters wrong about them. Even Messi will never forget this game in his life. “One supporter summed up the situation on social media by writing, “Vozinha and Cape Verde must stand up tonight.” Argentina are moving forward with their World Cup dreams still alive, but Cape Verde will leave the tournament with their history changed. The players who participated in the competition were admired by the football world after their outstanding performance in the 2026 World Cup, proving that they were at the highest level of the game.