04/07/2026 14:46 - Deportes
Reports indicate that on July 3, 2026, the Argentine National Team defeated Cape Verde 3-2 in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, held at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. However, the day was not without its off-pitch surprises.
In the stadium's 'mixed zone'—the designated area where journalists and players cross paths for post-match interviews—an accident was narrowly avoided when a containment barrier began to wobble in front of Lionel Messi. Fortunately, a FIFA official arrived just in time to hold the structure, preventing it from falling on the Argentine captain.
The moment also left a heartwarming image: players from the Cape Verde national team, an African island nation of roughly 500,000 inhabitants that surprised the world by qualifying undefeated for this stage, patiently waited for Messi to take photos with the star. These types of gestures have become common throughout the career of the player from Rosario (Messi's hometown in Argentina), demonstrating the immense respect he commands worldwide.
The triumph against Cape Verde had significant milestones. Lionel Messi reached 20 goals in World Cups, consolidating his position as the all-time top scorer in the competition's history. Meanwhile, Lisandro Martínez was chosen as the man of the match with a rating of 9, following a stellar defensive performance and a crucial goal.
Despite the victory, the team managed by Lionel Scaloni suffered more than expected against a rival that complicated things with their order and dynamism. Additionally, players like Facundo Medina, Enzo Fernández (with cramps), and Nicolás González (with a sprained ankle) finished with physical issues, generating some concern ahead of the next challenge, though the team remains optimistic about their recovery.
Argentina is set to face Egypt on July 7, 2026, in the city of Atlanta. The African squad arrives after eliminating Australia in a thrilling penalty shootout.
Source: Olé
Alfredo S. Quiroga
