Lionel Messi has laughed off the rough physical treatment he received from Cape Verde during Argentina’s World Cup last-16 qualifying clash, joking about being kicked around on the pitch even as opposing players lined up afterwards to request his shirt and a selfie.

Argentina secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over their determined opponents in Miami, though the match proved far tougher than expected. Despite the physical nature of the contest, several Cape Verde players waited behind after the final whistle to ask Messi for his jersey and photographs, and the Argentina captain happily obliged, sharing a light-hearted moment with the players who had just spent ninety minutes competing fiercely against him.

Messi joked about the contrast between their conduct on and off the pitch, poking fun at how roughly he was treated during play compared to the warmth shown afterwards.

Beyond the light moment, Messi also reached a personal milestone in the match, netting his 20th career World Cup goal. He credited Argentina’s set-pieces for playing a decisive role in securing the win, noting that his side had previously struggled to convert from such situations in recent outings.

However, the Argentina captain admitted the overall performance fell below the team’s usual standards. He explained that Argentina lost their rhythm after taking an early lead, struggling to press effectively and eventually surrendering control of the game to their opponents despite having done the hardest part in finding the opening goal. The result nonetheless secured Argentina’s place in the last 16 of the tournament, where they are set to face Egypt, who advanced after edging past Australia in a penalty shootout.

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