World champions Argentina face tournament debutants Cape Verde Islands in a David vs Goliath Last 32 clash. Can the Blue Sharks pull off a seismic shock?
World champions Argentina enter the knockout phase as the only team with a perfect group-stage record, but standing in their way are the tournament's surprise package: Cape Verde Islands. Lionel Scaloni's side have swept aside Jordan, Austria and Algeria with ruthless efficiency, scoring eight goals and conceding just once. Yet the Blue Sharks have quietly navigated a tricky group containing Saudi Arabia, Uruguay and Spain without a single defeat, drawing all three matches to secure second place. This is a fixture that pits pedigree against persistence, star quality against collective spirit.
Summary
This Last 32 tie at the 2026 FIFA World Cup brings together two teams at opposite ends of the footballing spectrum. Argentina, the reigning world champions, topped Group A with a perfect nine points and a goal difference of +7. Cape Verde, making their first-ever appearance in the knockout stages, finished second in Group B with three draws and a goal difference of zero. The match kicks off on 3 July 2026 at 22:00 UTC at a venue yet to be confirmed. For the full tournament schedule, check the fixtures page.
Team News & Form
Argentina have been flawless in the group stage, beating Jordan 3-1, Austria 2-0 and Algeria 3-0. Lionel Scaloni has rotated effectively, but his strongest XI is now clear. The only concern is a minor knock to Lisandro Martínez, though he is expected to be fit. Cape Verde, meanwhile, have shown remarkable resilience: a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia, a 2-2 thriller with Uruguay, and a 0-0 stalemate against Spain. Their defensive organisation has been key, but they have yet to win a match. For the latest group standings, visit the standings page.
Key Players
Argentina: Lionel Messi – The captain has been in sublime form, scoring twice and assisting three times in the group stage. His vision and dribbling will be crucial against a deep-lying Cape Verde defence. Cape Verde: Ryan Mendes – The veteran winger is the team's creative spark, capable of unlocking defences with his pace and trickery. He scored against Uruguay and will be the main outlet on the counter.
Predicted Lineups
Argentina (4-3-3): Emiliano Martínez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Nicolás Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Alexis Mac Allister; Lionel Messi, Julián Álvarez, Ángel Di María.
Cape Verde (4-4-2): Vozinha; Steven Moreira, Roberto Lopes, Logan Costa, João Paulo; Jamiro Monteiro, Marco Soares, Kevin Pina, Ryan Mendes; Jovane Cabral, Gilson Tavares.
Key Battles
The midfield duel between Rodrigo De Paul and Jamiro Monteiro will be pivotal. De Paul's energy and passing range can break lines, while Monteiro's tenacity and ball retention will be vital for Cape Verde's transitions. Another key battle is between Lionel Messi and left-back João Paulo – if Messi drifts inside, João Paulo will need support from his centre-backs.
Head-to-Head
This is the first-ever meeting between Argentina and Cape Verde Islands. Argentina have a rich World Cup history with three titles, while Cape Verde are debutants. The gulf in experience is vast, but the Blue Sharks have already defied expectations by reaching the knockout stage.
Score Prediction
Argentina's quality and knockout experience should prevail, but Cape Verde's defensive discipline could make this a tighter contest than many expect. Prediction: Argentina 2-0 Cape Verde Islands. For more on Argentina's campaign, visit the Argentina team page. For Cape Verde's story, see the Cape Verde Islands team page.
Where to Watch
The match will be broadcast live on major sports networks worldwide. Check local listings for details.
