Reigning champions narrowly escape an early World Cup exit.
Reigning champions narrowly escaped an early tournament exit on Friday as they defeated debutants Cabo Verde 3-2 during an exhausting extra-time battle in Miami.Lionel Messi and his squad expected an easy victory. However, the underdog African nation fiercely challenged them until the final whistle at Hard Rock Stadium.
Football enthusiasts in Odisha, who passionately track South American teams, watched in awe as this dramatic clash unfolded. Messi struck first in the 29th minute. He beautifully controlled a pass from Lisandro Martinez before sending the ball into the net. This brilliant strike gave his team the halftime advantage and put him ahead in the Golden Boot race.
Cabo Verde returned from the halftime break with intense determination. Deroy Duarte shocked the stadium just before the hour mark. He fired a low shot into the corner, leveling the score. Goalkeeper Vozinha then frustrated Messi repeatedly. He pulled off incredible saves to keep the match tied and force extra time.
Lisandro Martinez quickly restored the lead by volleying in a corner kick.Cabo Verde refused to back down.Sidny Lopes Cabral soon curled an incredible shot into the top corner to tie the match again. Finally, Cristian Romero headed in the winning goal. His late effort deflected slightly off a defender. Emiliano Martinez secured the victory by stopping a dangerous free-kick in the dying moments.Messi and his teammates now advance to face Egypt in the next round. Cabo Verde leaves the tournament proudly. They won immense global respect for their brave performance.
Image Courtesy: ANI
