[Anchor]
In the North and Central American World Cup, defending champion Argentina has advanced to the Round of 16 after defeating Cape Verde, the surprise sensation of this tournament. Lionel Messi, the "God of Football," led his team to victory by becoming the first player in World Cup history to reach 20 career goals.
Reporter Pyeon Gwanghyeon has the story.
[Reporter]
At the heart of Argentina's quest for a second consecutive title was, as always, Messi.
With the score tied at 0-0 in the 29th minute of the first half, Messi controlled a long pass from defender Martinez with a sublime first touch before firing a left-footed shot into the back of the Cape Verde net.
With this goal, Messi set a historic milestone as the first player in World Cup history to score 20 goals in the tournament. He also moved into sole possession of the lead in the Golden Boot race with his 7th goal of the tournament, surpassing France's Mbappe.
However, the counterattack from Cape Verde, the tournament's dark horse, was fierce.
In the 14th minute of the second half, Duarte scored an equalizer with a composed right-footed shot, forcing the match into extra time.
Argentina took the lead again just two minutes into the first half of extra time with a goal from Martinez, but 11 minutes later, Cape Verde's Cabral leveled the score once more with a wonder goal that found the corner of the net.
In the moment of crisis, Messi's brilliance shone through once again.
Six minutes into the second half of extra time, Messi delivered a left-footed corner kick that found Romero for a header. The ball deflected off an opposing defender and resulted in an own goal.
After fending off a late offensive surge from Cape Verde, Argentina secured a 3-2 victory and advanced to the Round of 16.
Cape Verde, which had caused a stir by drawing against powerhouses Spain and Uruguay in their first-ever tournament appearance, ultimately bowed out after failing to overcome the defending champions.
---
Egypt and Australia traded goals in a grueling match that went to extra time, with Egypt ultimately advancing to the Round of 16 after a penalty shootout.
Egypt, led by Salah, and Argentina, spearheaded by Messi, will face off in the quarterfinals on July 8 in Atlanta, USA.
---
Colombia secured the final ticket to the Round of 16 by defeating Ghana 1-0, holding onto the lead established by Arias' 14th-minute opening goal.
Colombia will clash with Switzerland on July 8 in Vancouver, Canada.
[Video Editing: Ha Seong-won]
※
Copying, redistribution, and unauthorized use in AI training are strictly prohibited.