Lionel Messi pays ultimate respect to Cape Verde after Argentina get out of jail: ‘They didn’t lose to Spain'

Messi applauds Cape Verde after Argentina survive World Cup scare

Lionel Messi reserved special praise for Cape Verde after Argentina edged the African nation 3-2 in a dramatic FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash, acknowledging the challenge posed by one of the tournament's surprise packages.

Argentina eventually progressed to the Round of 16, but only after being pushed to the limit by a spirited Cape Verde side that refused to back down against the defending world champions.

Reflecting on the contest after the final whistle, Messi stressed that his team had expected a difficult evening despite entering the match as overwhelming favourites.

"They didn't lose to Spain," Messi said, pointing to Cape Verde's impressive group-stage performance as evidence that the underdogs deserved greater respect heading into the knockout encounter.

Argentina made to work for qualification

Argentina were expected to comfortably book their place in the last 16, but Cape Verde had other ideas.

The African nation matched Lionel Scaloni's side with fearless attacking football and disciplined defending, forcing Argentina to remain at their best throughout the contest.

Every time Argentina looked ready to take control, Cape Verde found a way back into the game, ensuring the result remained in doubt until the closing stages.

Although Argentina's superior attacking quality ultimately proved decisive, the defending champions were forced to dig deep to avoid what would have been one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history.

Cape Verde earn admiration from football world

Messi's comments echoed the widespread praise Cape Verde have received throughout the tournament.

Making only their second World Cup appearance, the island nation exceeded expectations by competing fearlessly against some of international football's strongest sides.

Their defensive organisation, tactical discipline and willingness to attack against elite opposition have won admiration from supporters and pundits alike.

Goalkeeper Vozinha was again among Cape Verde's standout performers, producing several important saves before later revealing that Messi personally congratulated him after the match, telling him: "Your people should be proud of you."

Scaloni's side warned ahead of tougher tests

While Argentina celebrated qualification, the narrow victory also exposed areas of concern for Lionel Scaloni.

Conceding twice against Cape Verde highlighted defensive vulnerabilities that stronger opponents may seek to exploit in the later stages of the tournament.

With a Round of 16 clash now awaiting, Argentina know significant improvements will be required if they are to successfully defend their World Cup crown.

For Cape Verde, however, the tournament ends with heads held high after producing one of the most memorable campaigns in the nation's football history.