Emiliano Martinez praises Cape Verde after Argentina's World Cup struggle
Argentina's goalkeeper admitted his frustration with the team's narrow escape in the Round of 32 and lauded the African side's performance.
Argentina narrowly advanced to the next round of the 2026 World Cup after a grueling Round of 32 clash against Cape Verde. The match proved to be a major test for the defending champions, who were pushed to their absolute limits.
Cape Verde's Sidny Lopes Cabral delivered a stunning strike in extra time to level the score at 2-2. Emiliano Martinez, guarding the Argentine goal, admitted his frustration with conceding such a high-quality goal, while showing respect for his opponent's clinical finish.
What a goal they scored on me, the second one, it was unbelievable. Emiliano Martinez
Martinez noted that this knockout match served as a significant wake-up call for the team, drawing parallels to their experience four years ago. He emphasized that knowing how to endure and win under pressure is a necessary part of the tournament experience.
The Argentine goalkeeper also took the time to recognize the performance of Cape Verde's keeper, Vozinha. After denying Lionel Messi several times, Vozinha earned high praise from the veteran, who acknowledged that Cape Verde matched them on the pitch throughout the contest.
Following the scare at Toronto Stadium, Argentina is now shifting its focus to the next challenge. The team will face Egypt in the Round of 16, scheduled for Tuesday, July 7, in Atlanta.