The reigning World Cup champions were pushed all the way by an impressive Cape Verde team in their Round of 32 clash, needing an own goal in extra-time to emerge 3-2 victors. Lionel Messi scored the 20th World Cup goal of his career.
Egypt won a World Cup knockout match for the first time in their history, as Mohamed Salah and his teammates beat Australia on penalties to set up a clash against Argentina.
France are set to take on Paraguay on Saturday evening for a spot in the quarter-finals. Head coach Didier Deschamps has dismissed concerns over high temperatures, with a heatwave expected to hit Philadelphia this weekend, while Paraguay’s Gustavo Alfaro has warned of “the storm” his team will face.
Back on the other side of the pond, Novak Djokovic fended off Arthur Rinderknech to move into the Wimbledon men’s Round of 16. Reigning champion Jannik Sinner also advanced, while Aryna Sabalenka eased through in the women’s draw.