Reigning champions Argentina beat Cape Verde 3-2 in a World Cup match that went to extra time, avoiding an upset and advancing to the Round of 16. Multiple outlets describe Lionel Messi as opening the scoring and playing a central role as Cape Verde twice equalized to force additional play. The contest is characterized as dramatic, with Cape Verde mounting a late challenge and Argentina ultimately overturning the deficit and securing progression in extra time.

Several reports also highlight the nature of Cape Verde’s performance as a breakthrough “fairytale” run that comes to an end after they score multiple goals against Argentina. In the decisive moments, outlets cite a late goal and include references to an own goal contributing to Argentina’s final margin. Argentina’s victory sets up their next-round match against Egypt, according to at least one report.

The coverage also notes Messi reaching milestone scoring figures, including his 20th World Cup goal and further extending his streak of scoring in consecutive World Cup games, while emphasizing that Argentina had to withstand pressure throughout the match.