Lionel Messi scored his seventh goal of the tournament before Cristian Romero's extra-time header, which deflected in off Diney Borges for an own goal, finally ended Cabo Verde's remarkable resistance.

The defending champions will now face Egypt in Atlanta on Tuesday after being pushed all the way by the World Cup debutants.

Cabo Verde had already impressed by advancing from the group stage in their first World Cup appearance, and they once again showed their quality with a fearless display against the reigning champions.

Messi broke the deadlock with a moment of trademark brilliance, bringing down Lisandro Martinez's pass with sublime control before lifting his finish beyond Vozinha to give Argentina the lead.

Cabo Verde responded after the interval as Deroy Duarte drilled a low effort into the far corner to restore parity and set up a tense finale.

Argentina regained the advantage early in extra time when Lisandro Martinez reacted quickest following a corner to fire home, but the Blue Sharks refused to go away.

Sidny Lopes Cabral produced one of the goals of the tournament, unleashing a stunning strike into the top corner to level the tie once again and leave penalties looming.

With the contest seemingly heading for a shootout, Argentina found the decisive breakthrough from another set piece. Messi's corner was met by Cristian Romero, whose header took a decisive touch off Diney Borges before finding the net.

Cabo Verde continued to press in the closing stages of extra time, but Emiliano Martinez produced a crucial save to preserve Argentina's advantage and send Lionel Scaloni's side into the next round.

Despite progressing, Argentina were made to work far harder than expected by a Cabo Verde side whose memorable World Cup debut came to an end after a spirited display against the holders.

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