Tiny Cape Verde steal the show against Argentina in a performance to last in World Cup lore

The African minnows capped off an impressive run with a heroic performance in a 3-2 loss to the defending champions

It was a sight we’d seen hundreds of times before, six times previously in this World Cup alone. Lionel Messi celebrating a goal, sprinting away with his arms outstretched in celebration. Against Cape Verde on Friday, Messi used a breathtaking first touch and deft, close-range finish to score Argentina’s opening goal and take the lead, one few in attendance thought they would relinquish.

Cape Verde’s goalkeeper, Vozinha, was left crumpled on one knee, his World Cup dream slipping away. The 40-year-old had become a sensation after playing brilliantly to shut out the European champions, Spain, in Cape Verde’s tournament opener. Vozinha, who plays his football in the Portuguese second division, made $53,000 last year. Messi made more than that for every five minutes he was on the field with Inter Miami last year.

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