Lionel Messi joked that Cape Verde players “kick the crap out of me” during Argentina’s hard-fought World Cup victory before lining up for shirts and selfies moments after the final whistle.
The Argentine captain made the light-hearted remark after his side edged Cape Verde 3-2 in Miami on Friday to secure qualification for the knockout stage of the tournament.
Messi, who scored his 20th career World Cup goal in the encounter, shared warm exchanges with several Cape Verde players after the game despite the physical challenge they posed throughout the contest.
“They asked for my jersey, everything… On the field, they kick the crap out of me,” Messi said with a smile.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner appeared amused by the contrast between the intensity of the match and the admiration shown by his opponents once the game ended.
Argentina were made to work for their victory by a Cape Verde side that has earned plaudits during the competition for its resilience and disciplined performances.
Messi acknowledged that the African side proved a difficult opponent and said Argentina had anticipated a demanding contest from the outset.
“We knew it was going to be a very hard match,” he said.
“There’s a reason this team hadn’t lost to Spain and Uruguay.”
Despite progressing, the Argentine captain admitted that the reigning champions fell below their usual standards and struggled to dictate proceedings after taking the lead.
“We did the hardest part, which was finding the first goal, and we thought that because of that we were going to find our rhythm,” Messi explained.
“And it was the complete opposite. We lost possession, we sat back, we couldn’t press effectively.”
Messi also highlighted the decisive role set-pieces played in Argentina’s victory, noting that the team had recently focused on improving its efficiency in dead-ball situations.
“We’ve been working on it for a while, both offensively and defensively,” he said.
“In a competition like this, it’s important. We have players who are strong in the air and can make the difference.”
Argentina’s narrow win underlined the increasing competitiveness of the tournament, with several traditional football powers facing stern tests against emerging nations.
Cape Verde, making headlines with their spirited displays, once again demonstrated their ability to compete against elite opposition and pushed the South American giants until the closing stages.
Messi, however, insisted Argentina remain determined to defend their title despite the imperfections in their display.
“This team has shown for a long time that it competes and will continue competing until the end,” he said.
Argentina will now shift focus to the last 16, where they are set to face Egypt after the North Africans booked their place in the knockout rounds following a penalty shootout victory over Australia.
Messi’s latest strike also marked another milestone in his glittering international career, further extending his legacy as one of football’s most decorated players.
With the knockout phase beginning, Argentina will be hoping to rediscover the fluidity and control that have characterised much of their recent success as they pursue another World Cup crown.
