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Cape Verde may have exited the World Cup following a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat to Argentina, but the tiny African nation has left a permanent mark on the global stage. Despite the loss, their performance against the reigning world champions in Miami drew unprecedented praise from some of football's biggest legends like Thierry Henry and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

GOAL’s complete Cape Verde FIFA World Cup 2026 viewing guide, including how to watch for free and without cable!

Lionel Scaloni admitted it would have been "crazy" for Argentina to lose his 100th match in charge after the Albiceleste survived a huge scare against Cape Verde. Lionel Messi and his teammates needed extra time to progress, with their manager praising his players' resilience after a gruelling clash.

Lionel Messi laughed off the physical treatment he received from Cape Verde after Argentina edged into the World Cup last 16. The Albiceleste captain joked that his opponents "kick the crap" out of him before asking for shirts and selfies, while also admitting his side fell below their usual standards.