Iker Casillas Reacts to Cape Verde's World Cup Display

Iker Casillas reacted to Cape Verde's valiant effort in a 2-3 defeat against Argentina on July 4, 2026.

What happened?

Cape Verde equalized twice, with Deroy Duarte scoring in the 59th minute and Sidny Lopes Cabral in the 103rd minute.

Lisandro Martinez regained the lead for Argentina in the 92nd minute, but Cape Verde fought back.

Reaction from legends

Rio Ferdinand commented, "Oh my Cape Verde!!! What a goal WOW" after Cabo Verde's second equalizer.

Iker Casillas wrote, "Just for seeing the joy of the people of Cape Verde, it’s worth it!! How beautiful football is!"

The match

Argentina won the match 3-2, with a late corner taken by Lionel Messi being inadvertently redirected into Cape Verde's goal by Diney in the 111th minute.

The match sparked remarkable reactions across social media from iconic football figures and analysts.

What's next?

Argentina will face off against Egypt in the Round of 16 on Tuesday, July 7, after surviving the scare from Cabo Verde.

Former Germany defender Mats Hummels claimed, "Cape Verde. That was the most impressive game I have ever seen from a big time underdog, my biggest respect.