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Argentina ratings 16x9

Romero plays hero as Messi, Argentina suffer massive scare

Cristian Romero scored an extra-time winner, Lionel Messi grabbed a goal, but Argentina were given a real scare by Cape Verde in an uncomfortable 3-2 win to advance to the World Cup Round of 16. Argentina surrendered the lead twice, and needed extra time to finally gain daylight from a Cape Verde side that, in truth, deserved so much more.

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Cristiano Ronaldo Lionel Messi 2026 World Cup Portugal Argentina

Explained: Why Ronaldo gets more criticism than Messi

Cristiano Ronaldo retains the ability to make “people shut their mouth”, Louis Saha has told GOAL, with a former Manchester United team-mate of CR7 explaining why the Portuguese superstar attracts more criticism than fellow GOAT Lionel Messi. Both men are currently on 2026 World Cup duty, with more questions being put to an evergreen European frontman than his eternal South American rival is facing.

C. RonaldoExclusive
Jordan v Argentina: Group J - FIFA World Cup 2026

Scaloni addresses Messi reliance ahead of Cape Verde tie

Lionel Scaloni has defended Argentina's attacking variety ahead of their World Cup knockout opener against tournament surprise package Cape Verde in Miami. The manager insists he remains completely unconcerned by his talismanic captain's heavy goalscoring burden, despite the veteran forward netting six goals during the group stage.

L. MessiL. Scaloni
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Standings

Premier League crestPremier League

PosTeamPWDLFA+/-PTSForm
5ガンバ大阪 crestガンバ大阪00000000
6ジェフユナイテッド千葉 crestジェフユナイテッド千葉00000000
7鹿島アントラーズ crest鹿島アントラーズ00000000
8柏レイソル crest柏レイソル00000000
9川崎フロンターレ crest川崎フロンターレ00000000
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Betting spotlight

World Cup 2026 winner odds: Predictions and betting analysis
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