Lisandro Martinez played every minute in Argentina’s thrilling victory over Cape Verde in the World Cup 2026 knockout stages
Lisandro Martinez had a heroic performance for Argentina(Image: FIFA via Getty Images)
Lisandro Martinez was praised for his inspiring performance for Argentina as they defeated Cape Verde 3-2 in the World Cup 2026. The reigning world champions will now meet Egypt in the last 16 of the tournament after being forced to play the full 120 minutes against the minnows to book the clash.
While Lionel Messi was his usual legendary self and netted his seventh goal of the competition, it was the Manchester United defender that came in for acclaim after scoring himself and assisting the Inter Miami superstar.
The defender endured an arduous club campaign hampered by injury – a period Martinez called “tough”. After the game, he said: “I don’t want to think about those things, I try to keep it to myself. It was very tough. Thanks to my club and the national team. I’m truly very happy.”
Get MEN Premium now for just £1 HERE – or get involved in our United WhatsApp group by clicking HERE. You can also join our United Facebook page by clicking HERE and don’t miss out on our brilliant selection of newsletters HERE.
Martinez’s display at the centre of Lionel’s Scaloni defence was recognised by the Argentinian media who were in agreement over the United star.
Clarin
Martinez’s vital impact on both ends of the ball was noted by Clarin who named him as one of Argentina’s best players in the match and gave him a nine out of 10 rating. Diego Provenzano wrote: “He once again proved he’s exceptional, both in his clean distribution and, especially, in his ability to play the ball between the lines, as seen in that long pass to Messi for the goal.
“In the second half, he was late to cover the goal. He then provided another assist and remained one of the best players until the end of extra time.” The defender played all 120 minutes against Cape Verde, demonstrating his influence in Scaloni’s side.
La Nacion
The Man United star drove his nation to victory(Image: Getty Images)
La Nacion praised the attacking instincts of the 28-year-old who found himself in striker territory to give Argentina the lead in extra-time. Martinez pounced on Alexis Mac Allister’s header and finished home like a pro in front of goal.
They wrote: “Messi sent in a cross from the left, Mac Allister flicked the ball on at the near post, and it fell to Lisandro Martínez on the far side. The Manchester United defender positioned himself like a striker and fired a left-footed shot past the seemingly impenetrable Vozinha to make it 2-1, a huge relief.”
Pagina 12
The outlet continued the national theme of throwing praise on the United star for his influence in Argentina’s victory. Pagina 12 wrote of Martinez: “Lisandro Martínez was a standout performer for the national team, providing a magnificent assist for Messi’s opening goal and scoring one himself later on.”
“That’s how knockout matches go; you can’t get complacent,” Martinez assessed. He added: “Both teams gave it their all. This team never gives up. We’re ready for anything, and it’s good when things like this happen—sometimes you have to suffer.”
England’s 2026 World Cup kits
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Various Prices
Kitbag
England and Nike have launched the new home, away and goalkeeper kits to be worn at this summer’s FIFA World Cup. You can get free delivery on all orders with the code DEAL.