CORNERFLICK
Argentina and Cape Verde will meet in the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup, bringing together the holders and one of the tournament’s surprise packages.
Argentina topped their group with nine points and arrived in the knockout stage looking as expected under Lionel Scaloni. Lionel Messi has been central to that run, scoring six of Argentina’s eight goals so far.
The Argentina squad also appears tightly united around Messi, who may be playing his final World Cup. That sense of togetherness has helped turn them into one of the most dangerous sides in the competition.
Cape Verde earned their place in the last 16 by drawing all three of their group matches in a tough section that included Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. Their organisation, work rate and tactical discipline helped them hold both Spain and Uruguay.
They now face a far sterner test against an Argentina side with greater individual quality and plenty of confidence. The holders are expected to start as the stronger side, but the 2026 World Cup has already shown that nothing is guaranteed.