Argentina survived one of the most extraordinary matches in World Cup history, defeating Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time in the round of 32 — a result that required every last second of 120 minutes to settle.

The reigning world champions never had it easy against the competition debutants, who pushed Lionel Messi and his teammates to the absolute limit in a match that will be talked about for years to come. Gary Neville called it the finest underdog performance he has ever witnessed.

Messi opens the scoring

Argentina appeared to be cruising when Messi collected a ball over the top and finished past Vozinha in the 29th minute — a goal notable for its composure and technical precision, reminiscent of some of the great individual finishes the tournament has produced.

Cape Verde refused to be overawed, however. Deroy Duarte drew them level 14 minutes into the second half, threading a shot between Lisandro Martinez's legs from a tight angle to leave Emiliano Martinez unsighted and helpless.

Extra time drama

Argentina were unable to find a winner inside 90 minutes, with Cape Verde's goalkeeper — the 40-year-old Vozinha — delivering an inspired performance to deny the South Americans. Extra time loomed.

Lisandro Martinez restored Argentina's lead just two minutes into the additional period, and with Cape Verde chasing the game it seemed as though the tie was finally over.

But Sidny Cabral had other ideas. Cutting inside from the left onto his right foot, Cabral bent a spectacular curler into the far top corner — a finish of the very highest quality. He celebrated by sprinting up a set of steps and into what appeared to be the section reserved for friends and family, sharing an embrace with several people before returning to the pitch.

At 2-2, the prospect of the biggest shock in World Cup history was suddenly, tantalisingly alive again.

Own goal seals it for Argentina

The decisive moment arrived when Diney Borges turned a Messi corner into his own net, the ball deflecting in off his arm after he was unsighted by Cristian Romero's movement at the near post. It was a cruel way for the game to be decided.

Cape Verde continued to press and created further scares for Argentina as they hunted a third equaliser, but the clock ultimately ran down before they could conjure one final twist.

In defeat, Cape Verde depart the tournament having earned the admiration of the football world. Their fearless display over three weeks — capped by this remarkable showing against the world champions — announced them as a nation capable of competing at the very highest level.

Full-time: Argentina 3-2 Cape Verde (After Extra Time)