Argentina captain Lionel Messi made FIFA World Cup history after scoring in his side’s 3-2 victory over Cape Verde to secure a place in the Round of 16.
Messi opened the scoring to become the first player in World Cup history to score seven or more goals in two different editions of the tournament, having achieved the feat at both the 2022 and 2026 World Cups.
The 39-year-old also became the first footballer to make 30 FIFA World Cup appearances.
The Inter Miami CF forward has now scored 12 goals in his last eight World Cup matches against Australia, the Netherlands, Croatia, France, Algeria, Austria, Jordan and Cape Verde.
Argentina will face Egypt in the Round of 16 on Tuesday as Messi seeks to guide the defending champions into the quarter-finals.
Egypt reached the last 16 for the first time in their history after defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time.
Emam Ashour gave Egypt the lead in the 13th minute before Australia levelled through an own goal by Mohamed Hany in the second half.
Australia’s goalkeeper produced several crucial saves during extra time to keep his side in contention, but Egypt converted all four of their penalties while Australia missed two to seal a historic qualification.
The Pharaohs became the second African nation to reach the Round of 16 at the 2026 tournament.
Elsewhere, Colombia advanced to the knockout stage with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ghana.
After topping Group K with victories over Uzbekistan and DR Congo, alongside a goalless draw against Portugal, Colombia continued their impressive campaign as Jhon Arias scored the decisive goal in the 14th minute at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.
The South Americans will now face Switzerland on Tuesday for a place in the quarter-finals.
With the completion of the Round of 32, the fixtures for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 have been confirmed:
Saturday, July 4
- Canada vs Morocco
- Paraguay vs France
Sunday, July 5
- Brazil vs Norway
- Mexico vs England
Monday, July 6
- Portugal vs Spain
- United States vs Belgium
Tuesday, July 7
- Argentina vs Egypt
- Switzerland vs Colombia
