Argentina advanced from their World Cup Last 32 knockout tie against Cape Verde following a dramatic extra-time contest in Miami, eventually triumphing 3-2 after a match that provided far more threat than the seeding suggested. Cape Verde demonstrated exceptional resolve and offensive quality, equalling Argentina's lead on two separate occasions before the South American side finally broke through to secure their progression. The result reflected a contest marked by swings in momentum, with Argentina unable to establish dominance against an opponent that repeatedly threatened to inflict a historic shock.

Lionel Messi made a decisive contribution to Argentina's advancement, scoring what proved to be a crucial opening goal while simultaneously reaching the milestone of 30 World Cup appearances—the most ever recorded by a male player in the tournament's history. Cristian Romero's extra-time header ultimately proved the decisive moment, though Argentina's path to victory appeared far from certain given Cape Verde's attacking effectiveness throughout the ninety minutes and beyond. The victory sets Argentina up for their Last 16 contest, though the match served as a clear indicator that complacency poses a genuine threat to the stronger nations' tournament ambitions.