Argentina is breathing a sigh of relief after surviving the most remarkable challenge from tiny Cape Verde in the first knockout round of the 2026 World Cup, escaping with a late goal to win 3-2 and advance to the Round of 16.
It was a matchup between the world champions and a tiny African island nation that has fewer people than Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The gap between the two nations, in terms of soccer history and raw talent, could not have been more stark.
And yet, not only did Cape Verde take Argentina to extra time, but they came within inches of forcing Lionel Messi and his compatriots into the coin toss that is a penalty kick shootout.
The most dramatic 120 minutes of this World Cup began was expected: With Argentina on the front foot.
Cape Verde was under siege almost immediately as the Argentinians held nearly all the possession through the first 15 minutes of the match. It might have been enough time for the Blue Sharks to start dreaming of holding another top team to a clean sheet – but this one has Lionel Messi.
