Daijiworld Media Network – Miami
Miami, Jul 4: Defending champions Argentina survived a spirited challenge from Cabo Verde to register a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory and book their place in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup, while Egypt defeated Australia in a penalty shootout to advance to the knockout stage.
Lionel Messi put Argentina ahead in the 29th minute with his seventh goal of the tournament and the 20th FIFA World Cup goal of his career in his 30th appearance across six editions.
Cabo Verde, a nation with a population of just over five lakh, drew level through Deroy Duarte in the 59th minute to force the match into extra time.
Argentina regained the lead through Lisandro Martínez, but Sidny Lopes Cabral struck another equaliser to keep Cabo Verde's hopes alive.
The decisive goal came in the 111th minute when Cristian Romero headed in a Lionel Messi corner, with the ball taking a deflection off Diney Borges before ending up in the net as an own goal, sealing Argentina's place in the last 16.
Earlier, Egypt created history by recording their first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout-stage victory after defeating Australia 4-2 in a penalty shootout.
The match ended 1-1 after regulation time, and neither side could find a winner during extra time before Egypt prevailed in the shootout.
Argentina will now face Egypt in the Round of 16 on Tuesday.