Lionel Messi continued his stellar performance in the 2026 World Cup by scoring his seventh goal against Cape Verde in the last 32 tie in Miami. The 39-year-old's goal, his 20th career World Cup strike, secured a lead for Argentina against the minnows. Pundits Ian Wright and Gary Neville lauded Messi's "total control" and "elitism" during the play, comparing his composure to that of legendary forwards and noting how his seemingly disengaged presence can lull opponents into a false sense of security before an "incredible" finish. This goal extended Messi's scoring streak to eight consecutive World Cup games, and Argentina will next face Egypt in Atlanta, who defeated Australia on penalties.