Messi and Julian Alvarez produced a perfect link-up play after the goal fell short to Cape Verde’s strong defence.
The match was played at the Kansas City Stadium, U.S.
Egypt will face the winners of the round of 32 match between Argentina and Cape Verde later today.
Switzerland booked their place in the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup by beating Algeria with goals from Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye.
Spain have secured their third World Cup victory, beating Austria three-nil and taking their place in the round of 16 at the Los Angeles Stadium on Thursday evening.
Goncalo Ramos scored a late, late winner as Portugal came from behind to beat Croatia at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The championship will serve as qualifiers for next year’s U17 Africa Cup of Nations.
Mr Merlo stressed that journalists must stand firm against infiltration in the era of content creation and artificial intelligence.
The 2026 World Cup, with 48 teams participating, has seen teams show their defensive class, but only two teams have yet to be breached.
FIFA has been recording assists since the 1966 World Cup. Brazil legend Pelé holds the 56-year-old record for the most assists in a single World Cup, with six.
