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2026 World Cup
Round of 32
Argentina vs Cape Verde
MetLife Stadium
East Rutherford (New York/New Jersey), USA
Saturday, 4 July 2026
00:00
Argentina and Cape Verde will meet in an interesting 2026 World Cup Round of 32 clash, as the defending champions aim to overcome the surprise package, the Blue Sharks.
Current Form
Argentina were simply unstoppable as they topped Group J with a perfect record. The South American giants beat Algeria 3-0, Austria 2-0, and Jordan 3-1, with Lionel Messi in vintage form.
Cape Verde, meanwhile, produced one of the group stage fairy tales. The debutants drew 0-0 with Spain, fought back for a 2-2 draw with Uruguay, and held Saudi Arabia to a 0-0 draw in Group H to advance for the first time ever.
Team News
Argentina have no major reported injuries. Coach Lionel Scaloni can call upon a star-studded squad featuring Lionel Messi, Julián Álvarez, Lautaro Martínez, and a solid defensive unit led by Cristian Romero, who is fit after missing the Jordan game.
On the other hand, Cape Verde also have no major reported injuries but will rely on key performers such as Vozinha in goal, Ryan Mendes, Jamiro Monteiro, Kevin Pina, and attackers Hélio Varela and Diney to challenge the holders.
Quotes
“We respect every opponent," said Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni on facing Cape Verde.
"Cape Verde have shown they deserve to be here and we will prepare seriously for them. There are no easy games in the World Cup.
“We respect every opponent. Cape Verde have shown they deserve to be here and we will prepare seriously for them. There are no easy games in the World Cup.”
Head-to-head
Argentina and Cape Verde have no senior competitive history and have never met before.
This will be their first-ever encounter — and first meeting at a World Cup.