Argentina may have booked their place in the round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but Cape Verde had them scared to death.

Irrespective of where any African country would reach at this edition of the World Cup, it is safe to say Cape Verde is Africa’s shining light.

The Blue Sharks had the defending world champions fearing an unthinkable upset, but to the neutrals, this is what makes football the most exciting sport in the world.

Duarte stunned the Argentines with an equaliser minutes into the second half after Lionel Messi had scored his 20th World Cup goal in the first half.

The game ran into extra time, where Lautaro Martinez gave the South Americans the lead. The islanders, however, levelled the game through Cabral in the 102nd minute.

Sadly, a deflected header from Cristian Romero snatched the victory of Argentina, whose stars were relieved at the blast of the final whistle.

Argentina will take on Egypt next in the round of 16 stage.