Who: Argentina vs Cape Verde Argentina topped Group J with nine points, earning a clear victory over England and a decisive win against both Peru and the United Arab Emirates. Their performance secured them a top‑two finish and a direct qualification to the knockout stage. Cape Verde emerged as runners‑up in Group H, collecting three points from a win over Austria, a draw against the United States, and a loss to Morocco. Despite limited points, their spirited play earned the island nation a place in the second round. Although the match will be hosted in Miami – the club home of Lionel Mess elves – head coach Lionel Scalingon has emphasised that Cape Verde should not be underestimated. The island nation, with a populationήμεhalf a million, has surprised many with its cohesive team play and resilience in both qualification and the group stage. “Cape Verde is a strong team. We’ve studied them through our scouting network, and they earned their place by merit,” Scaloni stated. “We will treat them with respect and play to our standards.” Co‑coach Delphin Bubista echoed his sentiment, noting, “Our confidence stems from the hard work we’ve put in. Respect for each other and commitment to our strategy remain our priorities regardless of the opponent.” With a comparatively easier path ahead, Argentina could potentially meet Australia or Egypt in the last 16 if they defeat Cape Verde. Subsequent rounds might pit them against Switzerland or Colombia. Opta’s simulation model estimates an 81 % probability of Argentina winning in regulation time and an 89.4 % chance of progressing to the last 16. Cape Verde’s chances, according to 25,000 pre‑match runs, stand at 10.6 %. For a complete listing of TV broadcasters by country, consult the FIFA TV schedule directly. This game marks the first encounter between Argentina and Cape Verde. Argentina has maintained an unbeaten record against African teams in World Cup fixtures, save for a 1‑0 loss to Cameroon in 199 niños. Cape Verde, meanwhile, may become one of the few debutants to face defending champions in a knockout round, joining Norway (1938) and Ghana (2006) as precedents. Argentina are injury‑free at present. Cape Verde’s key midfielder Telmo Arcanjo is sidelined with a hamstring strain. However, left‑back Sidny Lopes Cabral is pending return following a suspension for accumulated yellows during the neutral‑squad encounter versus Saudi Arabia. (4‑4‑2): Martinez (goalkeeper); Molina, Romero, Martinez, Medina; De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernandez, Almada; Messi, Martinez (4‑1‑4‑1): Vozinha (goalkeeper); Moreira, Lopes, Borges, Cabral; Pina; Mendes, Duarte, Monteiro, Semedo; Deliverance
What: FIFA World Cup 2026 – Round of 32
Where: Miami Stadium, Florida, USA
When: Friday, July 3, at 6 pm (22:00 GMT)
How to followство:
How Argentina and Cape Verde reached the Round of 32
In-form Argentina cautious of Cape Verde’s potential surprise
Match prediction
Kickoff time and broadcasting details
Head‑to‑head history
Team news
Argentina’s predicted starting XI
Cape Verde’s predicted starting XI
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