Argentina Defeats Cape Verde in World Cup Knockout; Martinez Scores and Assists
In a World Cup Round of 32 match on July 4, Argentina beat Cape Verde 2-1 in extra time. Lionel Messi opened the scoring in the 29th minute after an assist from Lisandro Martinez. Cape Verde equalized through Deroy Duarte in the 59th minute. Martinez then scored the winning goal in the 92nd minute, becoming the first Argentine defender to both score and assist in a World Cup knockout match.
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Argentina Survives Cape Verde Scare in 3-2 World Cup Victory
Argentina and Lionel Messi advanced to the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a tense 3-2 victory over Cape Verde in Miami Gardens, Florida. Messi opened the scoring in the 29th minute, but Cape Verde's Deroy Duarte equalized in the 59th minute. The match remained 1-1 after regulation. In extra time, Lisandro Martinez scored for Argentina, but Sidney Lopes Cabral equalized for Cape Verde with a stunning goal. Argentina took a 3-2 lead via an own goal, but Cape Verde nearly equalized again in the 116th minute, only for goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez to make a crucial save. The victory avoided what would have been one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history, as Cape Verde, a nation of about 530,000 people once ranked 115th in the world, nearly defeated the defending champions.
Yardbarker: SoccerMessi Tells Cape Verde Keeper Vozinha His People Should Be Proud After World Cup Thriller
Following Argentina's extra-time victory over Cape Verde in the World Cup round of 32, Lionel Messi offered a heartfelt gesture and words of encouragement to Cape Verde's 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha. Vozinha disclosed that after the match, Messi hugged him and said, "You are great. Your people should be proud of you." Vozinha, who gained fame for a clean sheet against Spain earlier in the tournament, called Messi's words "incredible." The two exchanged shirts afterward. Messi, who scored his seventh goal of the tournament despite being fouled five times, also jokingly complained about being kicked by Cape Verde players. Argentina will face Egypt in the last-16.
Mirror - FootballTrabzonspor Posts Photo of Messi Helping Up Cape Verde Player Cabral with 'Respect'
In a World Cup round of 32 match, Argentina narrowly defeated Cape Verde 3-2 in extra time. During the match, Cape Verde player Cabral scored a stunning long-range goal to equalize for the second time. Cabral plays for Turkish club Trabzonspor. The club's official Twitter account posted a photo of Lionel Messi helping Cabral up from the ground, captioned simply 'Respect.' The gesture highlights Messi's sportsmanship and has been widely shared on social media.
虎扑 - 足球Argentine FA President Celebrates Thrilling World Cup Win Over Cape Verde
In a dramatic World Cup Round of 16 match, Argentina narrowly defeated Cape Verde 3-2 with a last-minute goal, securing a thrilling advancement. Following the match, Argentine Football Association President Claudio Tapia took to social media to express his emotions, writing: 'I hope for more shouts and embraces from the soul. We are united as one.' The post reflects the intense relief and joy of the team and nation after a hard-fought victory. The match, reported by Hupu soccer on July 5, highlights Argentina's resilience under pressure in the knockout stage.
虎扑 - 足球Argentine Team Photographer Shares Photo of Messi Giving Locker Room Speech
In the World Cup Round of 16 match held on July 5th, Argentina narrowly defeated Cape Verde with a score of 3-2. The official photographer of the Argentine national team shared multiple photos from before and after the match, including a notable image of Lionel Messi delivering a motivational speech at the center of the locker room prior to the game. The article, sourced from Hupu Football, highlights the tense nature of the match and the team's morale-boosting moment.
虎扑 - 足球Inter Miami Shares Photo of Messi and De Paul: Argentina Advances in World Cup
In a World Cup Round of 16 match held at Hard Rock Stadium, the home of Inter Miami CF, Argentina narrowly defeated Cape Verde 3-2 with a last-minute goal to advance. After the game, Inter Miami's official Twitter account posted a message celebrating the victory, saying 'Argentina wins in Miami, one step closer to the goal.' The post reportedly included images of Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul. The match was a thrilling contest that saw Argentina secure progression in the tournament.
虎扑 - 足球Argentina Scores 7 World Cup Extra-Time Goals, Trails Only Germany and Italy
In a World Cup Round of 16 match, Argentina narrowly defeated Cape Verde 3-2 with a last-minute extra-time winner. Lisandro Martinez scored, becoming the sixth Argentine player to net in World Cup extra time. Argentina has now scored a total of 7 goals in World Cup extra time, placing them third behind Germany and Italy, who each have 8. The match was a thrilling encounter that saw Argentina advance to the next round.
虎扑 - 足球Lopes Cabral Scores Wonder Goal for Cape Verde Against Argentina; Agüero Stunned
During the 2026 World Cup round of 16 match between Argentina and Cape Verde, Sidny Lopes Cabral scored a spectacular goal in the 102nd minute of extra time to level the score. The goal was so remarkable that former Argentine international Sergio 'Kun' Agüero and the ESPN commentator were left in disbelief, with the commentator calling it 'the goal of his life.' Lopes Cabral, who previously played for Estrela da Amadora and Benfica and now plays for Trabzonspor, showcased his ambidexterity with the stunning strike. The goal has been hailed as one of the best of the tournament, highlighting Cape Verde's spirited performance against the reigning champions.
RecordCape Verde Goalkeeper Vozinha Recalls Shirt Swap with Messi, Praise After World Cup Match
Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha revealed the words exchanged with Lionel Messi after their 2026 World Cup round of 32 match, where Argentina defeated Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time. Messi approached Vozinha in the tunnel, telling him he was fantastic and that people should be proud of him. Vozinha asked to swap shirts and Messi agreed. Messi later expressed surprise at learning Vozinha is 40 years old. The veteran goalkeeper had an outstanding performance, repeatedly denying Messi, who is the World Cup's all-time top scorer and led the tournament with 7 goals. Vozinha is currently a free agent after leaving his Portuguese club Chaves.
RecordArgentina Advance Past Cape Verde in World Cup Thriller
Argentina narrowly defeated Cape Verde in a dramatic World Cup last-32 match in Miami, avoiding what would have been the greatest shock in tournament history. Lionel Messi scored a brilliant goal, but Cape Verde, the third-smallest population to ever reach the World Cup, twice equalized through Deroy Duarte and Sidny Lopes Cabral. Veteran goalkeeper Vozinha, aged 40, nearly upstaged Messi with a heroic performance. Argentina advanced to face Egypt in the last 16, while Cape Verde earned lasting acclaim as cult heroes. The article also covers Australia's penalty shootout defeat to Egypt and previews upcoming matches.
Football | The GuardianArgentina advance despite Cape Verde's heroic World Cup performance
Argentina advanced to the last 16 of the 2026 Geopolitics World Cup after a dramatic match against Cape Verde, narrowly avoiding one of the greatest shocks in tournament history. Lionel Messi scored a brilliant strike, but Cape Verde, the third-smallest population to reach the tournament, pushed Argentina to the limit. Goalkeeper Vozinha, a 40-year-old veteran of lower-tier European football, became a cult hero with his performance. Cape Verde's Deroy Duarte and Sidny Lopes Cabral scored equalizers, forcing Argentina to fight hard for victory. The match was played in Miami, Messi's adopted home. Argentina will next face Egypt in Atlanta, while Cape Verde's heroic display will be remembered as a defining moment of the tournament. The article also includes reader letters and updates on other matches.
Football | The GuardianArgentina Advance Past Cape Verde in World Cup Thriller
Argentina narrowly defeated Cape Verde in a dramatic World Cup last-32 match in Miami, avoiding what would have been one of the greatest upsets in tournament history. Lionel Messi scored a brilliant goal, but Cape Verde, the third-smallest population to ever reach the World Cup, fought back twice through goals from Deroy Duarte and Sidny Lopes Cabral. Veteran goalkeeper Vozinha, aged 40, nearly stole the show with a heroic performance. Argentina advanced to face Egypt in the last 16, while Cape Verde earned lasting respect as the tournament's cult heroes. The match highlighted the success of FIFA president Gianni Infantino's expanded knockout format, which added jeopardy to the group stage.
Football | The GuardianPearce and Durham Argue Cabral Deserved Man of the Match Over Messi
Argentina defeated Cape Verde 3-2 in extra time to advance to the World Cup round of 16. After the match, Lionel Messi was awarded the Man of the Match award by FIFA's sponsors, sparking heated debate among talkSPORT commentators Adrian Durham and Stuart Pearce. Both argued that Cape Verde's Sidney Lopes Cabral deserved the honor more, citing his stunning world-class goal that curled into the top corner. Messi opened the scoring, but Cape Verde equalized through Duarte. In extra time, Lisandro Martinez put Argentina ahead again, but Cabral's strike leveled the match. An own goal by Borges nine minutes before the end of extra time allowed Argentina to narrowly advance. Messi praised Cape Verde's performance, noting their previous results against Spain and Uruguay. Messi suffered a knee strike to the head during the match, causing forehead swelling, but is expected to play in the quarterfinal against Egypt.
虎扑 - 足球Tiny Cape Verde steal the show against Argentina in a performance to last in World Cup lore
In a 2026 World Cup last-32 match, tiny African nation Cape Verde nearly pulled off one of the greatest upsets in sports history, losing 3-2 to defending champions Argentina after extra time. Lionel Messi scored Argentina's opening goal, but Cape Verde's 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha, who plays in the Portuguese second division and earned $53,000 last year, became a sensation after shutting out Spain earlier. Deroy Duarte equalized in the second half, and Sidny Lopes Cabral scored a stunning goal in extra time. Argentina won on a late own goal. Cape Verde, the smallest nation ever to reach a World Cup knockout round, has no domestic league and draws talent from its diaspora. Coach Bubista expressed pride, and defender Pico Lopes noted the tournament put Cape Verde on the map.
Football | The GuardianSleepless Fans in Kerala Put Through Wringer as Argentina Narrowly Escapes World Cup Elimination
The article describes the emotional rollercoaster experienced by Argentine football fans in Kerala, India, during a World Cup round of 32 match against Cape Verde. The match, which started at 3:30 a.m. local time, saw Lionel Messi put Argentina ahead in the first half. However, Cape Verde equalized in the second half, forcing extra time. Cape Verde then scored a stunning goal to level again before eventually losing to the defending champions. Fans like 15-year-old Rayan Ismail and Salih from Malappuram expressed relief and anxiety, drawing comparisons to the nerve-wracking 2022 final against France. The close contest highlighted Argentina's vulnerabilities and sparked a meme storm from rival fans on social media.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Cape Verde Stars Gatecrash Lionel Messi's World Cup Interview for Selfies After Thrilling Match
After a dramatic World Cup round-of-16 clash, Cape Verde players interrupted Lionel Messi's post-match media interview to take selfies with the Argentine legend. Argentina narrowly defeated the underdogs 3-2 in extra time, with Messi scoring his seventh goal of the tournament. Despite the physical battle on the pitch, Messi good-naturedly posed for photos and joked about the rough treatment he received. He praised Cape Verde's performance, noting they had previously held Spain, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay to draws. Argentina advanced to face Egypt in the next round. The incident highlighted the respect and admiration for Messi even from opponents, as well as Cape Verde's impressive World Cup campaign where they were never beaten in regular time.
Mirror - FootballCape Verde's Wonder Goal Against Argentina: Candidate for Best Tournament Goal
On July 4, 2026, Cape Verde's Sidny Lopes Cabral scored a spectacular equalizer against Argentina during extra time in a World Cup 2026 match, putting the defending champions on the brink of a penalty shootout. The goal, which leveled the match with 17 minutes remaining in extra time, is being hailed as a candidate for the best goal of the tournament. The strike made the entire African nation dream of a historic upset against the reigning champions. The match was reportedly being played in the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Cape Verde as a significant underdog.
Fútbol en AS.comCape Verde Players Ask Messi for Photos After World Cup Loss; Argentine Jokes About Being Beaten Up
The Cape Verde national team was eliminated from the 2026 World Cup after a 3-2 extra-time loss to Argentina. Despite the defeat, several Cape Verde players approached Lionel Messi in the mixed zone to ask for photos. Messi joked with reporters from TyC Sports, saying, 'On the field they beat me up [laughs].' The match was a memorable experience for the Cape Verdean squad, who fought until the end for a spot in the round of 16. The article highlights the lighthearted interaction between the Argentine star and the opposing players after a competitive match.
RecordMessi Advances to World Cup Round of 16 with Forehead Bump After Argentina's Extra-Time Win Over Cape Verde
Argentina narrowly defeated Cape Verde 3-2 in extra time during the World Cup round of 32 match on July 4, 2026. Superstar Lionel Messi scored in the 29th minute, his seventh goal of the tournament, making him the current top scorer ahead of Kylian Mbappé (6) and Erling Haaland (5). However, Messi left the pitch with a noticeable swelling on his forehead after colliding with an opponent's knee in stoppage time. Despite the injury, he played the full match and celebrated Argentina's winning goal in the 111th minute. Messi praised Cape Verde as a strong team. Argentina will face Egypt in the round of 16 on Tuesday. The defending champions could meet Colombia or Switzerland in the quarterfinals if they advance.
BILD - SportCape Verde's World Cup Fairy Tale Ends in Extra-Time Heartbreak Against Argentina
In a stunning Round of 32 match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Miami, debutant Cape Verde pushed defending champions Argentina to the brink before losing 3-2 after extra time. An own goal in the 111th minute shattered the underdog's dream of a historic upset. Cape Verde twice equalized after Argentina took the lead, showcasing remarkable resilience. After the match, Cape Verde's hero Sidny Lopes Cabral collapsed in tears on the pitch. Coach Bubista praised his team's soul and pride, stating they 'made history.' Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni admitted relief, saying losing would have been 'madness.' International media, including L'Équipe and The Guardian, celebrated Cape Verde's heroic performance over the world champions.
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