Overview
- Argentina defeated Cabo Verde 3-2 after extra time at Hard Rock Stadium, with the match decided by an own goal in the 111th minute.
- The scoring sequence began with Lionel Messi (29'), Deroy Duarte equalizing (59'), Lisandro Martínez restoring the lead in extra time (92'), Sidny Lopes Cabral tying it again (103') and Diney Borges putting the ball into his own net (111').
- Messi scored for Argentina and reached 20 career World Cup goals and seven in this tournament while delivering the corner that led to the decisive goal.
- Emiliano 'Dibu' Martínez made a vital late save to preserve the win and Cabo Verde earned praise as a tournament revelation with goalkeeper Vozinha singled out and later sharing an emotional exchange with Messi.
- Argentina will face Egypt in the Round of 16 at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Tuesday, July 7, and broadcasters reported very high TV ratings in Argentina during the Miami match.