Argentina beat Cape Verde 3-2 in a thrilling World Cup 2026 match with goals from Messi and more.
- Argentina won the match 3-2 against Cape Verde. The FIFA World Cup 2026 continued with an exciting encounter between Argentina and Cape Verde at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. The two teams clashed in a highly anticipated match, with fans eager to see the outcome.
How it unfolded
The match began with both teams creating scoring opportunities, but it was Argentina who struck first. In the 29th minute, Lionel Messi scored the opening goal, assisted by Lisandro Martínez, giving Argentina the lead. The score remained 1-0 in favor of Argentina until the 59th minute when Deroy Duarte equalized for Cape Verde, assisted by Ryan Mendes. The match was now evenly poised, with both teams pushing for another goal. In the 92nd minute, Lisandro Martínez scored for Argentina, assisted by Alexis Mac Allister, restoring their lead. However, Cape Verde were not ready to give up yet, and in the 103rd minute, Sidny Lopes Cabral scored, assisted by Yannick Semedo, to bring the score to 2-2. The match was now heading into extra time, with the score still tied. In the 111th minute, an own goal by Diney Borges sealed the win for Argentina, making the final score 3-2.
Standout performers
The goalscorers for Argentina were Lionel Messi and Lisandro Martínez, while Deroy Duarte and Sidny Lopes Cabral scored for Cape Verde. Lisandro Martínez also provided an assist for Messi's goal, and Alexis Mac Allister assisted Martínez's goal. For Cape Verde, Ryan Mendes and Yannick Semedo provided the assists for their team's goals.
Match facts
- Final score: Argentina 3, Cape Verde 2
- Scorers: Lionel Messi (29'), Deroy Duarte (59'), Lisandro Martínez (92'), Sidny Lopes Cabral (103'), Diney Borges (own goal, 111')
- Bookings: Kevin Pina (yellow, 68'), Gonzalo Montiel (yellow, 115')
- Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida
What it means
Both Argentina and Cape Verde will continue their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign, with this match being an important part of their group-stage journey.