Argentina Survives Cape Verde Shock at World Cup

Lionel Messi and Argentina narrowly avoided a historic upset in the World Cup knockout stage by defeating Cape Verde 3-2 in extra time. Cape Verde, a group of 10 islands off the coast of Africa with a population of about 525,000, became the smallest nation to reach this stage of the World Cup. Ranked 67th globally, they drew 0-0 with Spain, then with Uruguay and Saudi Arabia to enter the last 32.

As previous World Cup champions, Argentina looked set to easily advance to the last 16, especially after Messi became the first player to score 20 World Cup goals with his seventh of the tournament in the 29th minute. Despite dominating possession, Argentina was stunned when Deroy Duarte scored, assisted by Cape Verde’s captain Ryan Mendes, despite Mendes being under investigation in New Zealand for an alleged crime.

Vozinha, Cape Verde’s veteran 40-year-old goalkeeper, played a crucial role with key saves, notably against Messi in a one-on-one. He also saved a deflected Messi free kick, taking the match into extra time. In extra time, Argentina’s Lisandro Martinez scored, but Cape Verde’s Sidny Lopes Cabral responded with a striking goal, sending the ball into the top corner, and celebrated dramatically in the stands, causing a commotion at the Hard Rock Stadium.

The tense game concluded when Cristian Romero’s header from a Messi corner deflected for an own goal by Diney Borges in the 111th minute, securing Argentina’s victory. The remarkable challenge by Cape Verde raises questions about Argentina’s vulnerability in upcoming matches. Argentina’s next challenge is against Egypt in Atlanta on July 7 in the round of 16.

The Athletic’s team delved into various angles of the match, underlining Argentina’s unexpected scare and discussing the implications.

How Cape Verde Tested Argentina

The matchup featured an island nation of 525,000 people contrasted against Argentina, a country of 46 million and three-time World Cup champions. Cape Verde, despite being a debutant, gave a remarkable performance causing Argentina to rely on luck, such as an own goal, to seal the win. This raises concerns about Argentina’s form and future challenges against stronger teams.

Cape Verde, against all odds, made the world champions appear vulnerable and nearly accomplished the unthinkable.

Cabral’s Stunning Goal

This World Cup saw incredible goals, and Sidny Cabral’s strike ranks among the greatest. Cape Verde seemed finished once Lisandro Martinez scored for Argentina in extra time. Yet, Cabral audaciously attempted a shot, initially appearing to miss, but it dramatically curved and landed in the net. His celebration, which involved leaping into the audience, left Argentina bewildered and anxious about their World Cup campaign.

Celebrating a Historic Goal

Following his goal, Cabral was overwhelmed. He sprinted towards the bench, momentarily tackling teammates before climbing into the stands to embrace a woman amid the wild celebrations. This surreal moment has become iconic, showcasing the great emotional heights experienced by Cape Verde.

Vozinha’s Impactful Performance

Relying on their experienced goalkeeper Vozinha, Cape Verde effectively challenged Argentina in regular time. They maintained a structured defense, with Vozinha displaying composure and flair under pressure. His crucial saves, particularly against Messi’s attempts, displayed his skill and contributed to taking the match into extra time.

Messi’s Continued Pursuit of Records

Lisandro Martinez provided an assist for Messi that furthered his status as the greatest World Cup goal scorer. Messi’s goal expanded his lead against Kylian Mbappe. The possibility of Messi breaking Just Fontaine’s 1958 record of 13 goals in a single tournament looms, with Messi having additional matches if Argentina progresses to the final.

This World Cup showcased Messi’s enduring excellence and Argentina’s drive, but also conveyed the formidable challenge posed by teams like Cape Verde.