The historic scenario of first-time FIFA World Cup participants Cape Verde knocking out the defending champions fell short of materializing, as Argentina once again leaned on the heroics of team captain Lionel Messi to keep their title hopes alive on Saturday, July 3.
The 40-year-old midfielder opened the match roaring, as a shot from point-blank range in the 29th minute sealed his 20th career World Cup goal, giving Argentina the lead entering halftime, 1-0.
Cape Verde refused to yield, however, as Ryan Mendes found Deroy Duarte just outside the goal area to strike from the right flank and level the match at 1-all in the 59th minute.
The defending champions remained composed early in extra time, as Messi’s corner kick attempt found Lisandro Martínez to break the deadlock, 2-1.
Tensions were far from over, however, as Sidny Lopes Cabral struck gold in the 103rd minute with a long-range attempt from the left flank that found the inside of the box to tie the match once again, 2-2.
Argentina tightened up in the dying minutes, as an own goal from centerback Diney Borges off a Messi corner kick in the 111th minute sealed the victory for the Albiceleste, 3-2.
Argentina Keeps Title Bid Alive
Playing in their first extra period in this World Cup, Argentina kept their dream for back-to-back titles alive and now advances to face Egypt in the Round of 16.
After being pushed to the brink, Messi credited the team’s collective effort to stay alive while underscoring rest as an important aspect in preparation for their next match.
“That’s what makes this World Cup so special, everything is so evenly matched…and every match is going to be incredibly difficult. I think the important thing now is to rest, think about what lies ahead, and take the positives from today’s match,” Messi said in Spanish postgame.
Cape Verde Wins Nation’s Hearts
Despite the loss, the debuting Blue Sharks still managed to go toe-to-toe with one of the greatest teams in football, barely falling short of pulling off the greatest upset in World Cup history.
One of the smallest nations participating in the World Cup, Cape Verde’s 40-year-old goalkeeper Josimar “Vozinha” Dias stood tall in his country’s elimination match, recording 10 total saves, including five against Messi.
Argentina will look to keep their momentum rolling when they face Egypt in another do-or-die matchup on Wednesday, July 8.
