04/07/2026 09:04 - Deportes
On July 3, 2026, the Argentine National Team played an electrifying match against Cape Verde at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, a famous venue primarily known for hosting American football, valid for the Round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup. In a game that proved to be much more complicated than expected, the Argentine squad managed to win 3-2 and secured their spot in the next phase.
The African team, an island nation of only 500,000 inhabitants that qualified undefeated in the group stage with three draws, showed why they are the tournament's biggest surprise. With impeccable defensive discipline and lethal counterattacks, they put 'La Scaloneta' (the affectionate nickname for the Argentine team, named after their head coach Lionel Scaloni) in jeopardy, forcing the team to show their grit and class in moments of high pressure.
The match opened up thanks to a play that will remain in the memory of all Argentine fans. During a mandatory cooling break, Lisandro Martinez delivered a precise long pass of over 50 meters that bypassed several defensive lines. Lionel Messi controlled it with unmatchable quality and scored with a powerful, impeccable shot against goalkeeper Vozinha, making it 1-0.
With this goal, the Argentine captain reached an extraordinary milestone: 20 goals in World Cup history, consolidating himself as the all-time top scorer in the competition. Furthermore, he reached 918 official goals in his professional career and scored his seventh goal in the current tournament. At 39 years old, Messi reaffirms his status as one of the greatest legends in world football.
According to evaluations by TyC Sports (Argentina's premier sports broadcasting network), the team was saved by pure heart. Lisandro Martinez was chosen as the man of the match with a rating of 9, thanks to his millimeter-perfect assist and a beautifully crafted goal later on. Messi also earned a 9 for his clinical finishing and leadership. Cristian Romero (7) and Alexis Mac Allister (6) also stood out in a game where suffering was constant.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni received a rating of 6, in a match that undoubtedly left important lessons for the upcoming stages of the tournament.
Despite the scare, Argentina achieved their goal and remains alive in the quest for the world crown. The next challenge will be in the Round of 16, scheduled for July 7, 2026 in the city of Atlanta. There, the Argentine squad will face Egypt, a national team that eliminated Australia in the Round of 32 after a dramatic penalty shootout.
The National Team, which won its group undefeated, showed they know how to suffer and overcome adverse situations, an essential characteristic of championship-winning teams. The dream of the 2026 World Cup remains intact, and the support of thousands of Argentines who filled Miami is the engine driving this team to continue making history. #WorldCup2026
Alfredo S. Quiroga
