Argentina Survive Cape Verde Scare After Extra-Time Own Goal in World Cup Thriller

Defending champions Argentina narrowly avoided one of the biggest upsets in FIFA World Cup history after defeating heroic debutants Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time in a thrilling Round of 32 encounter in Miami.

The South American giants, ranked second in the world, were pushed to the limit by Cape Verde, who are ranked 64th by FIFA and were making their first appearance in a World Cup knockout match.

After the match ended 1-1 in regulation time, Argentina appeared to have secured victory when defender Lisandro Martínez scored just two minutes into extra time.

However, Cape Verde refused to give up. In the 103rd minute, Sidny Lopes Cabral produced one of the goals of the tournament, cutting inside from the left before curling a stunning effort into the top corner beyond Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez to level the score at 2-2.

With penalties looming, Argentina were handed a dramatic lifeline in the 111th minute when Cape Verde defender Diney Borges accidentally turned the ball into his own net, sending the reigning world champions through to the last 16.

Argentina had taken the lead in the 29th minute thanks to another moment of brilliance from captain Lionel Messi. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner expertly controlled a long pass from Lisandro Martínez before firing home his 20th World Cup goal.

Despite falling behind, Cape Verde continued to fight and deservedly equalised in the second half through Deroy Duarte, who finished brilliantly from a tight angle after making a late run into the penalty area.

Just two minutes into extra time, Lisandro Martínez restored Argentina’s lead after reacting quickest to a flick-on from Alexis Mac Allister following a corner kick.

But Cape Verde stunned the thousands of Argentina supporters inside the stadium when Cabral produced his sensational equaliser. The Cape Verde forward nearly completed an unforgettable comeback moments later, forcing a superb save from Emiliano Martínez with only minutes remaining.

Although Cape Verde could not force a third equaliser and a penalty shootout, they exited the tournament with their heads held high after one of the greatest debut campaigns in World Cup history.

The African nation went unbeaten in regulation time throughout the tournament and earned draws against Spain, Uruguay and Argentina before eventually bowing out after extra time.

Argentina will now face Egypt in the Round of 16 on Tuesday, July 7, as they continue their defence of the World Cup title.