Fernandez returned to the heart of Argentina’s midfield having been rested for their final group game, and it looked like all was going to plan when a perfect first touch and clever finish from Lionel Messi gave the world champions a 29th-minute lead.

Fernandez had a low shot from the edge of the box saved by Cape Verde keeper Vozinha before half-time, but the African side competing at their first World Cup refused to lie down in Miami.

On the hour, Deroy Duarte finished from an acute angle at the end of a neat move to level the score at 1-1. Despite the best efforts of Messi and co, Cape Verde, inspired by the keeping of Vozinha, stood firm to send the tie to extra-time.

A couple of minutes into the additional half-hour, Lisandro Martinez fired Argentina back in front from a corner (celebrated with Enzo top).

Cape Verde responded with one of the great World Cup goals, scored by Sidny Cabral. He cut in off the left flank and whipped a stunning strike into the top right-hand corner, giving Emiliano Martinez no chance.

Lionel Scaloni’s side eventually settled an epic contest in the 111th minute when Cristian Romero’s header deflected in off Diney Borges for an unfortunate own goal.

Cape Verde had won the hearts of the footballing world with their displays at the tournament, while Fernandez and his team-mates will now prepare for a last-16 tie against Egypt in Atlanta on Tuesday.