Argentina advanced to the Round of
16 after beating Cape Verde 3-2 in extra time during the Round of 32 knockout
match, with Lionel Messi scoring the opening goal, Deroy Duarte equalizing for
Cape Verde, and Sidny Lopes Cabral scoring a stunning long-range goal to tie
2-2.
Cape Verde, the smallest nation by
population to reach the knockout stage in their World Cup debut, remained
unbeaten in 90 minutes after drawing with Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia.
Goalkeeper Vozinha made eight saves against Argentina, earning widespread praise despite the elimination.