WORLD CUP | Messi says Argentina must improve after 3-2 extra-time win over Cape Verde

Lionel Messi said Argentina need to improve in “many” areas after a 3-2 extra-time victory over Cape Verde in the World Cup 2026 last-32. Messi opened the scoring in the 29th minute before Cape Verde equalised just before the hour mark, then Lisandro Martinez restored Argentina’s lead and Sidny Lopes Cabral levelled again before an own goal by Diney sent Argentina through, according to Yahoo Sports. Messi also appeared to be an injury doubt for Argentina’s next match against Egypt at the Atlanta Stadium on Tuesday after he was seen with a swelling bruise on his forehead following a knee to the head late in the game, though he played the full 120 minutes.