Argentina were given an almighty scare by a fearless Cape Verde side before Lisandro Martinez finally restored order in a rip-roaring World Cup round of 32 clash in Miami. The reigning world champions looked to be in cruise control when Lionel Messi produced a trademark moment of magic, only for Deroy Duarte to stun the favourites with a historic equaliser. But Martinez, the Manchester United defender, rose highest to power home a decisive header and send Argentina into the last 16 with a nervy 2-1 victory.
Messi Magic Gives Argentina Dream Start
Argentina began the match at Hard Rock Stadium in complete command, and the inevitable opener arrived in the 22nd minute. Messi, who had already gone close with a curling free-kick, received the ball on the edge of the box and with a sensational first touch he ghosted past two defenders before firing a low, angled finish into the far corner. The goal was Messi’s eighth in as many World Cup matches, extending a staggering run that defines his legacy on the biggest stage. The BBC described the finish as “sensational”, and it was hard to argue with that assessment. Argentina’s dominance appeared set to continue as Cape Verde struggled to contain the waves of attacks led by Messi and Julian Alvarez.
Duarte Stuns Argentina with Historic Equaliser
But Cape Verde, the lowest-ranked team left in the tournament, refused to buckle. With nothing to lose, they began to commit men forward and were rewarded in the 34th minute with a moment that will live long in the nation’s football memory. A quick break down the right saw the ball whipped into the box, and Deroy Duarte met it with a firm header that left Emiliano Martinez with no chance. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the Cape Verde players and fans, as they dared to dream of a monumental upset. It was the first World Cup goal Cape Verde had ever scored against a former champion, and it silenced the overwhelmingly pro-Argentina crowd inside the stadium.
Martinez Proves the Hero as Argentina Edge Through
The second half saw Argentina lay siege to the Cape Verde goal, but a combination of heroic defending and wasteful finishing kept the scores level. Just as the tension became unbearable, Lisandro Martinez, on his return to the starting lineup, rose unmarked at a corner to thunder a header past the keeper in the 67th minute. The goal was met with a mixture of relief and elation from the Argentinian bench, and from there they managed the game expertly to see out the win. Cape Verde pushed hard in the closing stages but couldn’t find another equaliser, ending their spirited challenge.
Key Takeaways
- Lionel Messi once again demonstrated his enduring class, scoring for an eighth consecutive World Cup match and dragging Argentina forward.
- Cape Verde exceeded all expectations, showing tremendous heart and tactical discipline to push the world champions all the way.
- Defensive lapses almost cost Argentina dearly, and they will need to tighten up at the back if they are to retain their title.
- Lisandro Martinez’s winning goal highlighted the value of set-piece threats in crunch knockout matches.
Quick Facts
Goals: Messi (22'), Duarte (34'), Lisandro Martinez (67')
Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami
Competition: 2026 FIFA World Cup – Round of 32
Attendance: Not confirmed
UK Highlights: Available on BBC iPlayer (UK only)
