Argentina needed an extra-time own goal to avoid a stunning World Cup exit against fearless debutants Cape Verde.
The World Cup last-32 clash ended in dramatic fashion as the defending champions secured a 3-2 extra-time victory. A 111th-minute own goal by Diney Borges finally separated the sides after Cape Verde twice fought back to level the match.
Lionel Messi opened the scoring in the first half with his 20th World Cup goal before Deroy Duarte equalised after the break. Lisandro Martinez restored Argentina’s lead early in extra time, but Sidny Lopes Cabral responded with a spectacular long-range strike to make it 2-2.
Argentina eventually progressed when Borges accidentally turned the ball into his own net.
The result sends Argentina into the last 16, while Cape Verde bow out after producing one of the tournament’s most memorable performances in their first-ever World Cup knockout match.
Argentina stay alive in their title defence, but Cape Verde leave the tournament with their reputation greatly enhanced.
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