Advertisement
Argentina boss Scaloni lauds Cape Verde after World Cup thriller
04th July, 2026 08:57 AM
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has praised Cape Verde for pushing the reigning world champions to the limit in a dramatic FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 32 encounter that stretched into extra time.
The South American giants eventually secured a 3-2 victory after an own goal in extra time decided an entertaining contest at Miami Stadium on Saturday, July 4, 2026. Cape Verde twice fought back from behind, delivering a spirited display in their first-ever World Cup appearance before narrowly missing out on a place in the last 16.
Argentina’s victory books a round of 16 meeting against Egypt in Atlanta on July 7, 2026.
Speaking after the match, Scaloni admitted his side had been involved in one of their toughest tests of the tournament while acknowledging the outstanding effort from their African opponents.
Scaloni hails Cabo Verde
“It was a really tough match,” Scaloni told a post-match news conference. “You always have to focus on the positives. This team never gives up. And I have to give credit to our opponents. Today Cabo Verde proved they’re a great team. The truth is, everyone finished really tired, because they gave it their all,” he said.
The Argentina coach also rejected claims that his team had enjoyed a straightforward route through the knockout stage, insisting every nation remaining in the competition deserved respect.
“That was for those who said we had an easy run in the draw,” he said. “Sure, we deserved to win and go through, but it was an extremely difficult match.”
“I just wanted the match to be over. You saw the stunning goal they scored. I’m always wary. Everyone thought it would be a walk in the park, but we knew it wouldn’t be.” The tactician said.
Argentina’s recilience
Scaloni further applauded his players for their determination over the full 120 minutes, saying they battled through exhaustion to secure qualification.
“They finished the match absolutely knackered,” he said. “There are areas for improvement, but they’ve shown resilience. The players are tired because of extra time – too many minutes – and some cramps. But when they play with their hearts, they can overcome anything.
“The team showed their character and their worth today. The best thing about this team is that it just keeps going, keeps going, keeps going. The boys keep attacking with their heart on their boots.
“I think we rose to the occasion. The pitch was strange; the ball wouldn’t run as we are used to, not ideal at all.”
Reflecting on Argentina’s fighting spirit, Scaloni said the performance embodied the identity and mentality that have long defined the national team.
“This is Argentina. If you don’t understand that, it’s hard,” he said. “We Argentines will understand it, because nothing comes easy.”
“What does it mean to be Argentine? To suffer. Cabo Verde gave 200 percent, and in football that levels things out. The fans are the first to understand that this is Argentina and nothing for us is easy. There is something special to this jersey. We will keep going forward and there is no way we haven’t come out of this stronger and will be moving forward.” He explained.
Argentina are firmly on course to retain their World Cup, but they will have to overcome record African champions Egypt in their next assignment at the tournament.
