In the FIFA World Cup, Argentina beat Cabo Verde 3-2 after extra time in a thrilling Round of 32 match at Miami Gardens in the US to enter the Round of 16. Earlier, Egypt advanced after defeating Australia 4-2 in a penalty shootout at Arlington in the US.
Defending champions Argentina survived a major scare against Cabo Verde, a nation of just over five lakh people, before booking their place in the Round of 16. Lionel Messi put Argentina ahead in the 29th minute with his seventh goal of the tournament and the 20th World Cup goal of his career in his 30th appearance across six editions.
Deroy Duarte restored parity for Cabo Verde in the 59th minute, forcing the match into extra time. Lisandro Martínez gave Argentina the lead once again, but Sidny Lopes Cabral produced a stunning equaliser to keep the underdogs’ dream alive.
The decisive moment came in the 111th minute, when Cristian Romero’s header from a Lionel Messi corner deflected off Diney Borges and into the net for an own goal, sealing Argentina’s dramatic victory.
Earlier, Australia and Egypt were tied 1-1 after regulation time and goalless extra time before Egypt prevailed 4-2 in the penalty shootout to register their first-ever World Cup knockout-stage victory. Argentina will now face Egypt in the Round of 16 on Tuesday.
