With the tournament now at the business end, every mistake is proving costly as the world’s best teams battle for survival.

The biggest talking point came in Miami, where Argentina were pushed all the way before edging tournament surprise package Cape Verde 3-2 in a thrilling Round of 32 encounter.

The defending champions were expected to have things their own way, but the island nation once again showed why they have been one of the stories of the tournament. Cape Verde refused to be intimidated and took the fight to the South Americans, forcing Argentina to dig deep.

Argentina’s experience and quality in the decisive moments ultimately proved the difference as they held on to secure their place in the last 16, but Cape Verde exited the tournament with their heads held high after a historic campaign.

Earlier in the day in Dallas, Egypt continued Africa’s strong showing at the tournament when they held their nerve to beat Australia on penalties.

The two nations couldn’t be separated after a tense 1-1 draw, with both sides creating opportunities but unable to find the knockout blow. From the penalty spot, Egypt showed their composure to win the shootout 4-2 and move into the next round.

It was a bitter end for Australia, who had produced a brave performance, while Egypt will take huge confidence from their ability to handle the pressure of knockout football.

The final match of the day saw Colombia edge Ghana 1-0 in Kansas City in another tightly contested battle.

The West African side enjoyed good moments and tested the Colombian defence, but the South Americans showed their tournament experience by managing the game well and making their opportunity count.

The result ended Ghana’s campaign, while Colombia advanced to set up another exciting challenge in the next phase.

The action continues on Saturdays the Round of 16 gets underway with two mouth-watering fixtures.

Canada will face Morocco in Houston, with both teams carrying plenty of belief following impressive performances earlier in the tournament. The Canadians will look to make the most of their historic run, while Morocco will once again aim to prove their recent rise on the global stage is no coincidence. This game kicks off at 19:00.

Later in the day, Paraguay and France meet in Philadelphia in one of the most intriguing clashes of the round.

France head into the match as arguably the tournament favourite, boasting a squad packed with world-class talent and experience. Paraguay, however, have already shown their fighting spirit and will be determined to frustrate the European giants.

With the Round of 32 now complete and the final 16 nations confirmed, the pressure and excitement continue to build as the road to the World Cup final becomes even tougher.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg