Argentina aimed to continue its pursuit of consecutive World Cup titles on Friday. To move forward, they needed to overcome Cape Verde, a standout team in this year’s tournament.

Cape Verde, a small island nation off West Africa, was ranked No. 64 globally. They impressed by holding Argentina, currently the No. 2 team right behind France, scoreless for nearly thirty minutes. However, in the 29th minute, Lionel Messi found the back of the net, giving Argentina the lead.

This goal marked Messi’s 20th World Cup goal. He became the first player to score seven or more goals in multiple World Cups, having achieved this feat in Qatar as well. It was also his eighth consecutive World Cup match with a goal.

Typically, when Argentina leads, they maintain it. Yet, early in the second half, Cape Verde’s Deroy Duarte stunned by tying the game at 1-1.

Despite late pressure from Argentina, including a dangerous Messi free kick from outside the box, Cape Verde’s defense held firm, leading the game into extra time.

Quick into extra time, Lisandro Martinez scored in the 92nd minute, regaining the lead for Argentina. But in the 103rd minute, Sidny Lopes Cabral of Cape Verde scored a remarkable goal, leveling the game once more.

Argentina had conceded only two goals in ten matches during their World Cup winning streak. Cape Verde matched this in one match.

In the 111th minute, Messi took a corner kick, placing the ball perfectly for Cristian Romero, who headed it into the net. Though later updated to an own-goal (deflecting off a Cape Verde defender’s arm), it still ruled the scoreboard.

Argentina managed to hold their ground despite Cape Verde’s persistent threat, avoiding what might have been a historic upset.

Argentina now focuses on their upcoming Round of 16 match against Egypt, set for Tuesday in Atlanta.