World Cup: Argentina wary of unbeaten Cape Verde ahead of Round 32 clash
By Joel Masibo, July 3, 2026Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has urged his players not to underestimate Cape Verde as the reigning world champions prepare for their FIFA World Cup 2026 round-of-32 encounter at Miami Stadium on Saturday, July 4, 2026.
The South American side progressed to the knockout stage after topping Group J with a flawless record, collecting three victories, scoring eight goals and conceding only once. Cape Verde, making its first-ever World Cup appearance, also impressed by remaining unbeaten in Group H. The African nation secured second place behind Spain after drawing 0-0 with Spain, sharing the points in a 2-2 thriller against Uruguay and finishing 0-0 with Saudi Arabia.
Addressing reporters ahead of the match, Scaloni emphasised that Argentina must not overlook their opponents.
Wary of the opponent
“We are excited like everyone else, but there is an opponent that we have to face, we have to respect, an opponent that has done very well,” he said.
He also warned that the competition becomes far more demanding once the knockout rounds begin.
“The margin is now narrowing. I think it’s not going to be easy. That’s the reality.”
Scaloni praised Cabo Verde’s disciplined defensive structure and dangerous counterattacking style, insisting the team has fully earned its place in the last 32.
“It is a team that has not lost. Even in some matches they deserved more – against Saudi Arabia I think they deserved to win. Against Spain and Uruguay maybe they suffered a little more, but they defended well.”
He continued by highlighting their tactical qualities.
“They block the interior pass well and then come out very well on the counterattack. And they want to play well. It’s a good team, we had already seen it as a possible rival. They are not there by chance, we have to respect them and that’s what we’ll do.”
De Paul speaks
Argentina midfielder Rodrigo De Paul shared his coach’s cautious outlook, saying the defending champions will approach the fixture with the mindset that there is no room for error.
“I think we have to face tomorrow’s match with a lot of responsibility. It’s very important for us.”
He also underlined his commitment every time he represents his country.
“We’re not going to hold anything back every time we put on the Argentina national team jersey.”
Looking ahead to the knockout contest, De Paul revealed the mentality he brings into every elimination match.
“For me, tomorrow’s match is the last one. I take it that way and I’m going to give it my all so that it isn’t and so there can be more.” He added.
The encounter is scheduled to begin at 6:00 p.m. local time, with players expected to contend with temperatures of around 30 degrees Celsius and humid conditions in Miami. Scaloni admitted the weather could influence the game but pointed out that both teams will face the same challenge.
“It’s for both, no doubt. I imagine it would have been better to play it at night. But the schedules are what they are and that’s it.” He explained.