Cape Verde Receive Standing Ovation After 3-2 Extra-Time Loss to Argentina

Cape Verde received a standing ovation from thousands of supporters after their remarkable FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign ended with a dramatic 3-2 extra-time defeat against defending champions Argentina in the Round of 32. The African side came close to producing one of the tournament’s biggest upsets, twice fighting back from behind before Argentina finally secured victory late in extra time.

Lionel Messi opened the scoring with his 20th World Cup goal and seventh of the ongoing tournament, giving Argentina an early advantage. Cape Verde, however, refused to surrender and continued to challenge the defending champions despite the oppressive Miami heat. Deroy Duarte equalised around the hour mark, forcing the match beyond regulation time after a determined defensive and attacking display.

Argentina regained the lead in extra time through Lisandro Martinez, but Cape Verde responded once again. Sidny Lopes Cabral produced a stunning strike to bring the score level at 2-2 and revive hopes of a historic upset. Argentina eventually found the decisive breakthrough when Diney Borges turned the ball into his own net under pressure from Cristian Romero, sealing a narrow victory for the South American side.

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Despite the defeat, Cape Verde’s players were warmly applauded by supporters inside the stadium as they left the pitch. Thousands of fans stood to recognise the team’s courageous performance against the reigning world champions. The emotional reception reflected the impact of Cape Verde’s debut World Cup campaign, during which the nation of just over 500,000 people emerged as one of the tournament’s most admired teams.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised Cape Verde after the match and admitted that the contest had left a major impact on him. The victory came in his 100th match in charge of Argentina, but he said his side had been pushed to its limits. Scaloni congratulated the opposition and said the match proved there were no easy games at the World Cup.

Argentina will next face Egypt in the Round of 16 as they continue their title defence. A victory would set up a possible quarter-final against Switzerland, Colombia or Ghana. Cape Verde, meanwhile, leave the tournament without progressing further but with widespread admiration after a performance that tested the defending champions until the final stages of extra time.

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