Lionel Messi fired Argentina into a 1-0 halftime lead against Cape Verde in their Round of 32 clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The captain broke the deadlock in the 29th minute after controlling a precise pass from Lisandro Martínez before beating Vozinha with a superb finish into the top corner. The goal marked Messi’s seventh of the tournament.
Argentina dominated possession throughout the first half and patiently built its attacks, while Cape Verde defended with discipline and limited the South Americans to few clear chances. After several quiet minutes, Messi provided the breakthrough and rewarded Argentina’s control of the match.
Cape Verde now needs a stronger attacking display after the break to stay in the contest. Argentina will try to maintain its advantage and book a place in the Round of 16.
