Argentina’s dramatic victory over Cape Verde carried a slice of history beyond the scoreline. According to Opta, the 3-2 extra-time win was Argentina’s 12th extra-time match at a World Cup. That figure equals Germany’s all-time record for the most in the competition.
The pattern has become a familiar one. Including Friday’s contest, eight of Argentina’s last 14 knockout matches at the tournament have gone to extra time. Few sides have made drama such a defining feature of their World Cup runs.
Their record in those games is formidable, too. Argentina have now prevailed in 10 of their 12 extra-time matches, counting shoot-outs. That tally comprises four outright wins and six shoot-out successes.
The latest instalment was an all-time classic in Miami. Lionel Messi opened the scoring with a sublime finish, only for Deroy Duarte to level for the tournament debutants. Cape Verde, ranked 67th in the world, refused to yield against the top-ranked holders.
Extra time brought yet more twists. Lisandro Martinez restored Argentina’s lead two minutes in, before Sidny Cabral curled home a contender for goal of the tournament. The 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha, meanwhile, produced save after save to keep his side alive.
The decisive moment fell Argentina’s way in the 111th minute. Cristian Romero met Messi’s corner, and his header deflected off the unfortunate Diney Borges and into the net. It settled a breathless encounter and broke Cape Verde hearts.
There were personal milestones amid the chaos. Messi scored his 20th World Cup goal in his 30th appearance, extending two records, while Lionel Scaloni took charge of his 100th game as manager.
Argentina now advance to a last-16 meeting with Egypt in Atlanta on Tuesday, where a sterner test of their fluency surely awaits.
Read more – Hossam Hassan dedicates Egypt’s World Cup win to Palestine
Also see – Argentina Edge Cape Verde 3-2 in Extra Time Thriller
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