Romero scores in extra time as Argentina defeats Cape Verde in World Cup round of 32

Argentina advanced to the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup and faced Cape Verde, a debutant team that qualified as a third-placed side after three draws in the group stage. Lionel Messi, playing his sixth World Cup, entered the match having already scored six goals in the tournament, matching Kylian Mbappé and joining the all-time leading scorers list.

The match remained level until extra time, when defender Cristian Romero scored to give Argentina a 2-1 advantage. The goal proved decisive, and Argentina held on to win the knockout tie.

Cape Verde had previously drawn 0-0 with Spain, 2-2 with Uruguay and 0-0 with Saudi Arabia, becoming the only debutant nation to progress from the group stage.

"We are proud of the team's performance and will continue to fight for the title," a spokesperson for the Argentine Football Association said.

Argentina now looks to face the tournament's top-ranked side, France, in the next round.