Lionel Messi and his Argentina squad narrowly advanced to the World Cup round of 16 on Friday night after a grueling match against tournament newcomers Cape Verde in Miami. Cape Verde delivered an exceptional performance that pushed the match into extra time, nearly forcing a penalty shootout. Argentina initially took the lead in the 29th minute when Messi expertly controlled the ball and finished past goalkeeper Vozinha. However, Cape Verde responded in the 59th minute with a low strike from Deroy Duarte to level the score.
The intensity continued into extra time, where Manchester United defender Lisandro MartÃnez appeared to have secured the win for Argentina with a powerful strike into the top of the net. The lead was short-lived, as Sidny Lopes Cabral responded with a spectacular long-range effort into the top corner, marking one of the tournament’s most impressive goals. Ultimately, Argentina sealed their 3-2 victory in the 111th minute when a Christian Romero header deflected off Diney Borges into the net. Argentina, who previously topped Group J after wins against Algeria, Austria, and Jordan, will now face Egypt in Atlanta.
Egypt secured their place in the next round after a tense victory against Australia in Dallas. The match remained a cagey affair, ending in heartbreak for the Socceroos despite a strong showing from goalkeeper Patrick Beach, who was replaced by veteran Mat Ryan specifically for the shootout. Egypt maintained composure during the penalties, with Mohamed Salah successfully converting a Panenka-style spot kick. Following misses from Australia’s Harry Souttar, who blasted his attempt over the bar, and Lucas Herrington, who hit the woodwork, the Egyptians converted all four of their penalties to advance. In other tournament action, Jhon Arias scored the decisive goal in Colombia’s 1-0 win over Ghana, setting up a round of 16 clash against Switzerland in Vancouver.
