NEW YORK, July 4 — Defending champions Argentina are through to the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 after surviving a dramatic extra-time battle against tournament surprise package Cape Verde, setting up a mouth-watering clash with Egypt in one of the standout fixtures of the knockout stage.
Argentina needed 120 minutes to overcome Cape Verde 3-2 in Miami, with captain Lionel Messi once again leading from the front by scoring his 20th FIFA World Cup goal. Despite twice surrendering their lead, La Albiceleste eventually secured victory through a late own goal, keeping their title defence alive.
The result means Argentina will now face Egypt, who created history by reaching the knockout stage after defeating Australia in a penalty shootout. Led by Mohamed Salah, the African side secured their first-ever World Cup knockout victory and will now attempt to upset one of the tournament favourites.
Elsewhere, Portugal also advanced after overcoming Croatia 2-1 in an emotional encounter that paid tribute to the late Diogo Jota. Cristiano Ronaldo inspired his side as Portugal booked a heavyweight Round of 16 showdown against European champions Spain.
Spain continued their impressive campaign with a convincing 3-0 victory over Austria, while England edged DR Congo 2-1 to set up a meeting with Mexico. Brazil progressed after defeating Japan 2-1 and will face Norway, who eliminated Ivory Coast.
Belgium secured a thrilling 3-2 win over Senegal and will take on hosts United States, while France comfortably dispatched Sweden 3-0 and now prepare for a clash against Paraguay.
Attention now turns to the Round of 16, where the remaining 16 nations will battle for a place in the quarter-finals. With several heavyweight clashes on the schedule, including Argentina versus Egypt and Portugal against Spain, the knockout stage promises even more drama as the race to lift football's biggest prize intensifies.
The FIFA World Cup has already delivered several surprise results, with emerging nations such as Cape Verde and Egypt earning widespread praise for their performances despite differing outcomes. As the tournament enters its decisive phase, fans can expect higher intensity, greater pressure, and little room for error as every match becomes a winner-takes-all contest.
source: Fifa World Cup
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