![Argentina’s Cristian Romero scores their third goal [Marco Bello/Reuters]](https://angelnetworknews.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/2026-07-04T003319Z_411921027_UP1EM7401JH13_RTRMADP_3_SOCCER-WORLDCUP-ARG-CPV-1783125295.jpg "Argentina’s Cristian Romero scores their third goal [Marco Bello/Reuters]")
Defending champions Argentina overcame a resilient Cape Verde side with a 3-2 extra-time victory in the World Cup round of 32 on Friday, securing progression amid a dramatic contest at Miami Stadium.
Lionel Messi opened the scoring on his return, but Cape Verde twice fought back to level the match, including a stunning strike by Sidny Lopes Cabral widely praised as one of the tournament’s standout goals. Cristian Romero eventually headed home the winner from a Messi corner in extra time.
The African debutants earned plaudits for their spirited display despite the defeat. “Cape Verde may be heading home, but they can return with their heads held high,” Al Jazeera’s live coverage noted. “A quite remarkable debut World Cup for them.”
Argentina will advance to face the winner of another tie as they pursue a third consecutive title.
