DST News: Lionel Messi scored once as defending champions Argentina survived a spirited challenge from World Cup debutants Cape Verde to claim a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory and book their place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16.

Messi opened the scoring in the 29th minute with his seventh goal of the tournament, but Deroy Duarte equalised for Cape Verde shortly before the hour mark to force extra time after the teams finished 1-1 in regulation.

Lisandro Martínez restored Argentina’s lead early in extra time, only for Sidny Lopes Cabral to level the match again with a superb strike in the 103rd minute. The decisive moment came six minutes later when a Messi corner led to an own goal by Cape Verde defender Diney Borges, sealing Argentina’s hard-fought victory.

Cape Verde, making their first-ever World Cup appearance, earned widespread praise for their fearless performance. Ranked 67th in the world before the tournament, the African side twice fought back from behind and came close to forcing a penalty shootout. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez also produced crucial late saves to preserve Argentina’s narrow lead.

Argentina will now face Egypt in the Round of 16, while Cape Verde exit the tournament with their heads held high after an impressive debut that established them as one of the competition’s surprise packages.