India, July 4 -- Cape Verde pushed Argentina to the very limit, taking the match into extra time before eventually losing 3-2. Although their World Cup journey ended there, the fearless manner in which they played earned widespread respect, including from Lionel Messi, whose brilliance proved decisive in the knockout clash.

It was a blockbuster contest in which Lionel Messi once again led Argentina from the front, scoring once and playing a key role in the other two goals. At the other end, Vozinha did everything he could to keep Cape Verde's dream alive, producing another outstanding display with eight saves. Despite his efforts, the defending champions found a way through to claim a hard-fought victory.

After the final whistle, the tw...