Lionel Messi once again played a decisive role for Argentina, opening the scoring and setting a new World Cup record in the process. The victory keeps Argentina's title defence alive and sets up a knockout clash against Egypt on Tuesday.

Argentina looked in control for long periods of the match and took the lead in the 29th minute when Messi found the net. The goal gave the South American side a deserved advantage after dominating possession and creating several opportunities in the opening half.

Cape Verde, however, refused to back down. The African nation, playing one of the biggest matches in its football history, equalised in the 59th minute through Dailo Duarte and pushed Argentina onto the back foot.

The match became increasingly tense as both teams searched for a winner. Argentina regained the lead deep into stoppage time through Emiliano Martinez, but Cape Verde struck again when Sidney Lopes scored a late equaliser to force extra time and stun the crowd in Miami.

With penalties looming, the contest was ultimately decided by an own goal in the 111th minute. Cape Verde defender Dinye inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, handing Argentina a narrow but crucial victory.

Messi's goal ensured another milestone in an already remarkable international career. The Argentine captain became the first footballer to score in eight consecutive FIFA World Cup matches. He also became the first player to feature in 30 World Cup games.

The 39-year-old now has seven goals in the ongoing tournament and has moved ahead in the race for the Golden Boot. He has also extended his overall World Cup goal tally to 20, further strengthening his position among the competition's most prolific scorers.

Despite the defeat, Cape Verde earned widespread praise for its spirited performance. Veteran goalkeeper Vozinha was one of the standout players of the match. The 40-year-old produced 10 saves, including five against Messi, and repeatedly frustrated the Argentine attack.

In another Round of 32 fixture, Egypt knocked Australia out of the tournament after winning 4-2 in a penalty shootout. The match had finished level after regulation and extra time.

Australia's hopes faded when captain Harry Souttar missed the opening penalty and teenager Lucas Harrington struck the crossbar. Egypt converted four of their spot-kicks through Mahmoud Saber, Rami Rabia, Mohamed Salah and Hossam Abdelmagid to seal a historic victory.

Earlier, Egypt had taken the lead through Emam Ashour before an own goal from defender Mohamed Hany brought Australia back into the game. Hany became the first player to score two own goals in a single World Cup edition.

Meanwhile, Colombia also progressed after defeating Ghana 1-0 in Kansas City. Jhon Arias scored the decisive goal in the 14th minute, helping Colombia book a Round of 16 meeting with Switzerland.

With the knockout stage gathering momentum, Argentina remain among the favourites for the title, while Egypt and Colombia continue their impressive campaigns with confidence-building victories.