Defending champions Argentina continue their FIFA World Cup 2026 title defence when they face tournament surprise package Cape Verde in the Round of 32 at Florida Stadium. While Argentina cruised through the group stage with maximum points, Cape Verde have already made history by reaching the knockout rounds in their World Cup debut.

Match Preview

Argentina Eye Another Step Towards Title Defence

Argentina have looked every bit like reigning world champions throughout the group stage, winning all three matches while extending their impressive winning streak to 10 games. Lionel Scaloni’s side sealed top spot with a convincing 3-1 victory over Jordan and have conceded just twice during their current run.

La Albiceleste have combined defensive solidity with clinical finishing, making them one of the tournament favourites once again. With stars like Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martinez, Enzo Fernandez and Julian Alvarez in excellent form, Argentina possess the quality to overwhelm almost any opponent.

Knowing the tougher tests are likely to come later in the tournament, Scaloni will demand another professional performance as his side look to secure a place in the Round of 16.

Cape Verde’s Historic Journey Continues

Cape Verde have already exceeded expectations by becoming one of the biggest stories of the tournament. The Blue Sharks progressed unbeaten from a difficult group containing Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia, becoming the first debuting nation to reach the knockout rounds since Slovakia in 2010.

Although they failed to win a group-stage match, three hard-earned draws highlighted their defensive discipline and resilience. Keeping a clean sheet against Spain proved they can frustrate elite opposition, but facing the defending champions represents an even greater challenge.

If Cape Verde are to spring another surprise, they will need another near-perfect defensive display.

Head-to-Head Record

This will be the first-ever meeting between Argentina and Cape Verde.

• First Competitive Meeting
• Argentina have won their last seven FIFA World Cup matches against African nations.

Key Stats

• Argentina have won their last 10 international matches.
• Five of Argentina’s last seven matches have produced Over 2.5 Goals.
• Argentina have won all three group-stage matches at the 2026 World Cup.
• Cape Verde have not conceded a second-half goal in their last six matches.
• Only one of Cape Verde’s last five matches has seen both teams score.

Players to Watch

Argentina – Lautaro Martinez

Lautaro finally opened his World Cup scoring account against Jordan and will be full of confidence heading into the knockout rounds. His movement inside the penalty area makes him one of Argentina’s biggest goal threats.

Cape Verde – Dailon Livramento

Livramento has consistently provided early goals for Cape Verde and will be their main attacking outlet if the underdogs are to cause an upset.

Team News

Argentina have no fresh injury concerns and are expected to field a full-strength starting XI.

Cape Verde remain hopeful that Telmo Arcanjo will recover after missing the final group-stage fixture.

Betting Tips

• ✅ Argentina to Win
• ✅ Argentina Over 2.5 Team Goals
• ✅ Lautaro Martinez Anytime Goalscorer
• ✅ Over 3.5 Match Goals
• ✅ Both Teams To Score – Yes

Correct Score Prediction

Argentina 4-1 Cape Verde

Cape Verde deserve enormous credit for their remarkable tournament run, but Argentina possess too much attacking quality and tournament experience. Expect the defending champions to dominate possession, create numerous chances and comfortably secure their place in the Round of 16, although Cape Verde could grab a consolation goal.

Final Prediction

• 🏆 Argentina to Win
• ⚽ Argentina Over 2.5 Team Goals
• 🔥 Over 3.5 Goals
• ⭐ Lautaro Martinez Anytime Goalscorer
• ✅ Both Teams To Score – Yes
• 🎯 Correct Score: Argentina 4-1 Cape Verde

Argentina should have too much firepower for the World Cup debutants and are expected to produce one of their most convincing performances of the tournament so far.