Argentina Stunned as Duarte Equalizes for Cape Verde

Deroy Duarte's late equalizer shocks Argentina as Cape Verde secure a 1-1 draw in their World Cup round of 32 match in Miami.

In a stunning upset at the World Cup round of 32 in Miami, tournament favorites Argentina were held to a 1-1 draw by underdogs Cape Verde, thanks to a dramatic late equalizer from Deroy Duarte. Argentina started the match with their usual dominance, controlling possession and creating early chances. The breakthrough came in the 23rd minute when Lionel Messi threaded a perfect through ball to Lautaro Martinez, who slotted home from close range to give Argentina a 1-0 lead. Despite falling behind, Cape Verde remained organized and disciplined, defending deep and looking for counter-attacking opportunities. They nearly equalized just before halftime, but a powerful shot was brilliantly saved by Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. The second half saw Argentina take their foot off the gas, seemingly content with a one-goal lead. Cape Verde grew in confidence and began to push forward, winning a series of corners around the 60th minute but failing to convert. Argentina almost doubled their lead in the 75th minute when Angel Di Maria's long-range effort struck the crossbar. As the match entered its final stages, Cape Verde threw caution to the wind, committing men forward. In the 89th minute, a long ball from the back caused confusion in the Argentine defense. A misjudged clearance fell to Deroy Duarte on the left side of the box. The Cape Verdean winger calmly cut inside, evading a defender, and curled a beautiful shot into the far corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance. The stadium erupted as Cape Verde players celebrated wildly, while Argentine players stood in disbelief. In stoppage time, Argentina pushed for a winner, but Cape Verde's defense held firm, securing a historic point. The draw is a major setback for Argentina, who were expected to cruise through the knockout stages. For Cape Verde, it is a monumental achievement, putting them in a strong position to advance from the group. Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni admitted his team became too conservative after taking the lead, while Cape Verde's coach hailed his players' fighting spirit, calling it one of the greatest moments in the nation's football history. Argentina now face a must-win final group match against a tough opponent, while Cape Verde will take on the group's weakest team, with a chance to reach the round of 16 for the first time.

Argentina Stunned as Duarte Equalizes for Cape Verde

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