World Cup 2026: Scaloni’s Argentina face Cape Verde in round of 16 in Miami

Placed in a group not specified here, Argentina booked their ticket to this knockout stage by finishing in a favorable position. Cape Verde, in another group, also qualified after a group stage in which they managed to stand out. This unprecedented run highlights the progress made by the African nation. The duel in Miami will be a real test for the Blue Sharks against an experienced and ambitious Albiceleste side.

From a sporting perspective, Argentina are relying on a traditional 4-4-2 line-up orchestrated by Lionel Scaloni, with five-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi up front alongside Lautaro Martínez. Since their victory in 2022, the team has retained strong pillars such as Emiliano Martínez in goal and a central defensive pairing formed by Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez. The midfield combines creativity and discipline with Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández and Rodrigo De Paul.

Opposite them, Cape Verde will play in a 4-1-4-1 system led by Pedro Leitao Brito, with Vozinha in goal and a defense built around Steven Moreira, Pico and Sidny Lopes Cabral. In midfield, Kevin Lenini operates as the holding player, while Ryan Mendes and Jovane Cabral are the attacking spearheads looking to unsettle the Argentine defense. Striker Nuno Da Costa will be tasked with converting the chances.

On paper, the matchup looks unbalanced, but Cape Verde will have the element of surprise and a disciplined collective organization. Argentina, meanwhile, will want to impose their experience and talent as they defend their title and continue their journey toward another world crown.

Focus on Argentina

Coached by Lionel Scaloni, Argentina rely on a solid and balanced 4-4-2 tactical setup. In defense, the duo of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez is flanked by Facundo Medina and Nahuel Molina. Emiliano Martínez remains the last line of defense in goal.

In midfield, creativity rests with Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernández, supported by Rodrigo De Paul and Thiago Almada, who are capable of driving play on the wings and through the center. In attack, Lionel Messi, the natural leader, plays alongside Lautaro Martínez, the center-forward expected to make the difference in this knockout match.

Argentina’s bench depth notably includes Gerónimo Rulli as the backup goalkeeper, veteran Nicolás Otamendi in defense and experienced players such as Leandro Paredes and Giovani Lo Celso in midfield. This wealth of options allows Scaloni to adapt his choices according to the flow of the match.

Focus on Cape Verde

Cape Verde, led by Pedro Leitao Brito, adopt a 4-1-4-1 system with a compact organization. The defense is made up of Steven Moreira, Pico, Diney Borges and Sidny Lopes Cabral in front of goalkeeper Vozinha. The objective is to contain the opposition’s attacks.

In midfield, Kevin Lenini has a defensive role, while Ryan Mendes, Laros Duarte and Deroy Duarte support Jovane Cabral, who is tasked with helping Nuno Da Costa in the search for a goal. This setup offers a good balance between defensive solidity and counter-attacking ability.

Cape Verde are counting on strict tactical discipline and the fighting spirit of their key players to compete with Argentina. This World Cup represents a major step in the development of Cape Verdean football, with hopes of springing a surprise.