Argentina secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Cabo Verde after extra time in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 on 4 July. The South American side overcame a resilient opponent in an entertaining knockout contest, scoring the decisive goal in extra time to book a place in the Round of 16.
Argentina began the match on the front foot, controlling possession and creating several attacking opportunities through patient build-up play. Cabo Verde remained well organized defensively and threatened on the counterattack whenever space became available.
The opening stages produced goals for both sides as the contest developed into an open encounter. Argentina’s attacking quality was matched by Cabo Verde’s determination, ensuring neither team could establish a comfortable advantage during regulation.
With the score level at the end of normal time, the match moved into extra time. Both teams continued to attack in search of a decisive breakthrough, creating chances during a tense period of knockout football.
Argentina eventually found the winning goal during extra time, edging ahead 3-2. The defending side then remained disciplined through the closing minutes, preventing Cabo Verde from finding another equalizer and forcing a penalty shootout.
The victory secured Argentina’s place in the Round of 16 after a demanding knockout fixture, while Cabo Verde exited the tournament having pushed one of the competition’s strongest teams into extra time.
Standout Performances
• Argentina defeated Cabo Verde 3-2 after extra time.
• The match required extra time to determine the winner.
• Argentina scored the decisive goal in the additional period.
• Both teams produced an entertaining attacking contest.
• Argentina advanced to the Round of 16.
Turning Point
Argentina’s extra-time goal proved decisive, allowing the South American side to take control before successfully defending its advantage through the remainder of the match.
Match Statistics
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026
Stage: Round of 32
Date: 4 July 2026
Final Score (AET): Argentina 3-2 Cabo Verde
Goals
• Argentina: 3
• Cabo Verde: 2
Result
• Argentina advances to the Round of 16
Sources
• FIFA World Cup Official Match Centre
• FIFA Tournament Coverage