Argentina are through to the last 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after surviving a major scare against Cape Verde, winning a tense extra-time contest 3-2.

It was Cristian Romero who ultimately made the difference, with a deflected header sealing the victory and sending the South American champions into the knockout rounds.

Cape Verde pushed Argentina to the very limit, forcing extra time in what proved to be one of the most dramatic encounters of the tournament so far. The African side refused to be overwhelmed, making the world champions work hard for every inch.

Romero's decisive contribution came in extra time, his header taking a deflection before finding the net — a moment of fortune that Argentina will gladly accept after an evening that tested their resolve.

The result keeps Argentina's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign firmly on track, though the manner of the win will give coach and players alike reason to reflect ahead of what promises to be a demanding last-16 fixture.