Missouri, July 4 -- Defending champions Argentina may have secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, but their dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory over tournament debutants Cabo Verde has sparked fresh questions over the team's defensive resilience ahead of a crucial clash with Egypt.

After cruising through the group stage with victories over Algeria, Austria and Jordan, Lionel Scaloni's men were pushed to their limits by an inspired Cabo Verde side that twice fought back from behind before an own goal off Diney Borges, following Cristian Romero's header, finally sealed Argentina's passage.

The narrow escape has shifted attention to Argentina's vulnerabilities, particularly after facing limited defensive pressure during th...