Argentina defeats Cape Verde in World Cup round of 32 thriller

In a dramatic 2026 World Cup knockout match, Argentina defeated Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time. Cape Verde reached the round of 32 after an undefeated group stage, finishing second with three points following draws against Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia. During the match, Duarte equalized in the 59th minute and Cabral in the 103rd minute before an own goal by Borges in the 111th minute secured the win for Argentina. The 40-year-old Cape Verde goalkeeper, Vozinha, performed impressively with eight saves during this match and 18 throughout the tournament. Vozinha also gained attention for completing two successful dribbles against Lautaro Martinez, while statistics note Cristiano Ronaldo has yet to record a successful dribble in the tournament. Following the loss, emotional scenes occurred on the field as Cape Verdean players were comforted by Vozinha, and striker Nuno da Costa was seen embracing his son. Argentina advances to face Egypt in the next round.