An own goal by Cape Verde’s Borges in the 111th minute settled a dramatic round-of-32 clash in which the tiny island nation twice came from behind to equalize against defending champions Argentina, who won 3-2 in extra time in Miami.
With a population of just 530,000, Cape Verde’s journey to the World Cup was already remarkable. Their performance against Argentina elevated it further — twice trailing and twice fighting back in what will be remembered as one of the tournament’s most thrilling encounters.
Cape Verde held Argentina scoreless for 28 minutes before Messi broke the deadlock in the 29th minute. Many expected the match to be settled there, but Cape Verde equalized through Deroy Duarte in the 59th minute, who finished coolly past Emiliano Martinez after a pass from Ryan Mendes.
Lisandro Martinez then appeared to seal the win for Argentina with a goal in the 91st minute, prodding home from close range. But Cape Verde refused to be denied. Sidney Lopes Cabral struck a stunning equalizer just minutes later, sending the match into extra time.
The decisive moment came when a Cristian Romero header struck Borges’ hand and deflected into the Cape Verde net for an own goal in the 111th minute.
Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha was exceptional throughout, making 8 saves — including 5 from Messi alone — and denying two free kicks. BBC’s Spanish football writer Elizabeth Conn said on social media that Cape Verde’s performance had made her a fan.
Argentina advance to face Egypt in the round of 16 in Atlanta on July 7.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report