It was expected to be a "walkabout", but Messi and Argentina suffered immensely against Cape Verde where it took extra time to secure a ticket to the round of 16.
The usual Messi gave his team the lead in the 29th minute. He is already known for his historical records, although the pace of the first half was disappointing. No one with 20 goals like Messi, who scores in eight consecutive World Cup games.
The second half saw Cape Verde immediately looking for the equalizer. And the big celebration came in the 59th minute, when Duarte sent the ball into the net.
The spectacle continued in extra time. Argentina immediately regained the lead with a goal from Lisandro Martinez, while there were doubts about an offside position.
Cape Verde's Cabral scored the most beautiful goal of the World Cup so far, right in the 102nd minute. No one could believe their eyes.
Both teams were looking for the winning goal. After Messi's cross from the corner and Romero's header, it was Borges' deflection that brought the winning own goal for Argentina. This was also the most bitter elimination from the World Cup. The Cape Verdean will long be remembered for his debut, as Argentina prepares for the challenge with Egypt in the 1/8 stage.
