New Delhi: Argentina were stretched to the limit before edging Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time in a dramatic contest to reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 last 16, while Colombia narrowly defeated Ghana 1-0 and Egypt advanced after a penalty shootout win over Australia in a tense knockout round.
In Miami, Argentina faced one of their toughest challenges of the tournament as Cape Verde pushed the defending champions to the edge. Lionel Messi opened the scoring with a moment of brilliance, taking his World Cup tally to 20 goals and extending his record streak in the competition. However, Cape Verde responded strongly, equalising through Deroy Duarte to expose gaps in the Argentine defence.
The match remained intense throughout, with Lisandro Martinez restoring Argentina’s lead in extra time, only for Sidny Lopes Cabral to strike a stunning equaliser that forced further drama. With penalties looming, Argentina finally broke through when a Messi corner led to a Cristian Romero header that deflected in off Diney Borges for an own goal. Despite sealing victory, Emiliano Martinez was forced into crucial late saves as Cape Verde continued to threaten until the final whistle.
In Kansas City, Colombia overcame Ghana 1-0 in a match dominated by the South Americans but marked by wasteful finishing. Jhon Arias scored the decisive early goal, and Colombia controlled possession and chances throughout. Ghana offered little attacking threat, failing to register a shot on target as Colombia repeatedly missed opportunities to extend their lead. The win sets up a last 16 meeting with Switzerland.
Meanwhile in Texas, Egypt advanced after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Australia following a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes. Emam Ashour gave Egypt an early lead, before Australia equalised through an own goal by Mohamed Hany. The match remained tightly contested through extra time, but Egypt held their nerve in the shootout. Mohamed Salah converted confidently, including a composed Panenka, as Egypt won 4-2 on penalties to secure a historic knockout progression.
Across the three matches, established stars and emerging teams alike were tested under pressure, with Argentina surviving the closest contest, Colombia relying on defensive discipline, and Egypt showing composure in a high stakes shootout to move into the next round of the tournament.