Argentina's 3-2 victory over Cape Verde in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 has not only secured a place in the pre-quarterfinals but also silenced predictions made by Ghanaian spiritualist Nana Kwaku Bonsam, who had claimed the defending champions would be eliminated. The prediction, widely discussed on social media before the match, gained further attention after Bonsam asserted that he had cursed Argentina and backed Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal to lift the World Cup.
The result prompted former Kerala Blasters forward C.K. Vineeth to share a social media post highlighting Lionel Messi's brilliance over the much-publicised prediction. Football fans also reacted by saying Messi's performance once again proved decisive on the biggest stage.
Messi gave Argentina the lead in the 29th minute after receiving a pass from Lisandro Martínez and finding the back of the net. Argentina eventually prevailed 3-2 after an intense contest that extended into extra time, ending Cape Verde's challenge and rendering Bonsam's prediction false.
The Ghanaian spiritualist has previously attracted attention for similar claims in international football. He had earlier claimed responsibility for England captain Harry Kane's failure to score against Ghana, with his subsequent announcement that the curse had been lifted followed by Kane scoring against Panama, episodes that fuelled discussion among football fans.
With the victory, Argentina progressed to the pre-quarterfinals, where they will face Mohamed Salah's Egypt on Tuesday. Messi also continues to lead the Golden Boot race with seven goals in the tournament, reinforcing his influence as Argentina pursues another World Cup title.