Lionel Messi was at the heart of everything good that came out of Argentina’s 3-2 victory against a spirited Cabo Verde side.
Messi scored the opening goal of the game to increase his tally to 7 goals at the current World Cup edition and 20 on the all time list.
Deron Duarte leveled matters to send the game into extra-time in the second half.
Capo Verde’s goal keeper Vozinha had to react quickly to deny the South Americans who continued to ask questions of their opposition’s defence.
Subsequently Lisandro Martínez resorted parity but Cobo Verde would soon alter the arithmetic through Sidny Lopes Cabral with a phenomenal finish.
There was still plenty of drama left as Cristian Romero’s headed effort on goal got an enormous touch from Diney Borges as they advanced to the round of 16 for the sixth consecutive World Cup.
Speaking shortly after the game Messi highlighted the importance of correcting a number of things after their hard fought victory.
“Today (Friday), we put in a huge effort, as always, playing well and playing badly, just like we always say.”
Messi further added after the game. “But I think the important thing now is to rest, think about what’s coming next and try to take positives from today’s game.”
“Beyond just qualifying, I think there are positives because we did some good things, and we also need to correct the bad ones, which I think were many today as well.”
The current defending champions, Argentina will take on five times African champions, Egypt who beat Australia on penalties to qualify for the round of 16.
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