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Defending champions Argentina national football team survived a major scare to book their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory over tournament debutants Cape Verde national football team.
Inspired by Lionel Messi, who scored the opening goal and helped create the decisive moment, Argentina twice surrendered the lead before an unfortunate extra-time own goal by Diney Borges in the 111th minute sealed a thrilling win.
Messi opened the scoring with a composed finish after controlling a lofted pass from Lisandro Martinez, but Cape Verde responded through Deroy Duarte, who fired home after collecting Ryan Mendes' cross.
Argentina regained the advantage early in extra time when Lisandro Martinez finished from a Messi corner that had been flicked on by Alexis Mac Allister. However, Cape Verde fought back again as Sidny Lopes Cabral produced a stunning solo goal to level the match.
With penalties looming, Borges inadvertently turned the ball into his own net to hand Argentina victory and a place in the last 16, where they will face Egypt national football team.
Earlier, Egypt secured a historic first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout-stage victory by defeating Australia national soccer team 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw.
Emam Ashour gave Egypt an early lead with a header in the 13th minute, but Australia restored parity in the second half through an own goal by Mohamed Hany.
Neither side could find a winner in regulation time, forcing a penalty shootout where Egypt converted all four of their spot-kicks. Australia's Harry Souttar and Lucas Herrington missed from the spot, allowing Hossam Abdelmaguid to score the decisive penalty and send the Pharaohs into the Round of 16.
