Argentina, Messi pushed to the brink by Cape Verde and its 40-year-old goalkeeper

Since this World Cup began, how many people have learned about Cape Verde, the small nation off the west coast of Africa?

Since this World Cup began, how many people have learned about Cape Verde, the small nation off the west coast of Africa? In its opening match, Cape Verde introduced itself with a draw against mighty Spain. Then it recorded another against Uruguay and another against Saudi Arabia, making it the smallest country to ever qualify for the World Cup’s knockout round.

Limited time: Save 25% on NBC News subscription

Get exclusive reporting, live Q&As and ad-free reading.

Its reward? A date with Argentina in the round of 32. The Cape Verde-vs.-Argentina match was billed as a re-imagining of David vs. Goliath. It marked the largest discrepancy in world rankings between two teams in the knockout round ever, with Argentina ranked second and Cape Verde 64th.

Argentina ultimately won 3-2 in extra time, grinding out a victory in a thrilling match. Argentina scored twice in extra time, with the winner coming courtesy of a Diney Borges own goal in the 111th minute.