Lionel Messi acknowledged the tough test that Cabo Verde faced after Argentina’s defenders survived a threat to secure a 3-2 extra-time victory in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32.The reigning champions were pushed all the way by the leaders of the tournament in an exciting tournament in Florida before sealing their place in the last 16. Speaking after the game, Messi admitted that Argentina expected a difficult evening and praised Cabo Verde for their fearless display.“We knew this would be a very difficult game, in the World Cup nobody gives you anything for free. Now it’s to rest, learn from today, and focus on the next game. Also, thanks to Cape Verde for the good performance,” Messi told reporters after the win.Messi also showed Argentina’s fighting spirit as the team twice saw off Cabo Verde in a thrilling tournament.“As this team has shown many times, and as I have said many times, it competes,” Messi said in Spain. “And we competed until the end.”Argentina looked to be in control after Messi opened the scoring in the 29th minute with his 20th FIFA World Cup goal. On the stroke of half-time, the striker pounced on a pass from Lisandro Martinez before firing into the roof of the net to give La Albiceleste the lead.However, Cabo Verde refused to return. Sidny Lopes Cabral restored the tie in regulation time before Lisandro Martinez put Argentina ahead in extra time. The underdogs struck again through Deroy Duarte to make it 2-2, raising hopes of a popular upset.The deciding moment came in the 111th minute when Cristian Romero’s header deflected off Diney Borges and into the net to score himself, sealing Argentina’s place in the round of 16, where they will face Egypt.Despite the defeat, Cabo Verde was treated to one of the best performances in recent World Cup history. Goalkeeper Vozinha made 10 saves, including five from Messi, as the tournament’s starters again showed the resilience that brought them to an impressive group stage.Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni also praised the African side after the final whistle.“I have to give credit to our opponents,” Scaloni said. “The truth is, when people say that there is no easy opponent, today (Cape Verde) played against a great team.”Messi’s goals further strengthened his ambition to win the Golden Boot. The Argentina captain now has seven goals in the tournament, one more than France’s Kylian Mbappé, as he extends his FIFA World Cup scoring record. The strike also became his 12th goal as he scored in a record eight consecutive World Cup matches.
