World Cup 2026 co-favourites Argentina will take on tournament debutants Cape Verde in the round of 32 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on Friday.
The Albiceleste enter the knockout stage with formidable momentum, while the Blue Sharks aim to spring a major surprise through their renowned defensive discipline.
Argentina were one of only three teams to complete the group stage unbeaten, winning all three matches alongside co-hosts Mexico and a strong France side.
The world champions have shown no signs of slowing down on North American soil. Even at 39, Lionel Messi continues to dazzle, netting six goals already.
The Inter Miami forward is currently tied with Kylian Mbappé for the Golden Boot race, despite the Frenchman having played one match more.
Cape Verde, one of four debutants at the 2026 finals alongside Curaçao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan, are the only newcomers to reach the knockout phase.
Coach Bubista’s side have built their campaign on resilience, securing two clean sheets in three group games.
They made history by holding Spain in their tournament opener, with goalkeeper Vozinha producing a standout performance.
Against Uruguay, they fought back from trailing twice to earn a 2-2 draw after leading 1-0, and they followed that with a goalless stalemate against Saudi Arabia.
Though the Blue Sharks are the lowest-scoring team among the 32 sides in the knockout rounds, their defensive solidity makes them dangerous opponents in single-elimination football.
They will look to stay compact, frustrate Argentina’s attackers as they did against Spain, and end the Albiceleste’s impressive 10-match winning streak across all competitions, as well as their strong knockout record.
Cristian Romero is expected to return to Argentina’s starting line-up after a knee concern in the group-stage win over Austria, likely replacing Nicolás Otamendi.
For Cape Verde, a late injury scare involving Telmo Arcanjo, Jamiro Monteiro and Kevin Lenini affected preparations for their final group match.
Only Arcanjo remains sidelined with a muscle problem, while the other two have recovered in time.
Bubista’s men have nothing to lose and will embrace the challenge head-on, hoping to deliver a historic upset against the world champions.
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