Argentina vs Cape Verde: Lionel Messi Eyes Consecutive Round of 16 Spot as Underdogs Chase FIFA WC History

Argentina meets Cape Verde on Friday night at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, in a round of 32 match that pits the World Cup holders and Lionel Messi against one of the tournament’s biggest outsiders. Cape Verdegoeso in with no expectations and no wins so far.

Argentina has the World Cup titles, a roster full of stars and Messi, while Cape Verde has none of that. A win for the island nation would rank among the biggest upsets in soccer and maybe sports history, in a contest likened to a “Miracle on Ice” moment.

“I believe we can do a great thing here,” Cape Verde backup defender Ianique dos Santos Tavares, who goes by Stopira, said through a translator on Thursday. “And this is no exception. This match is no exception.” Coach Bubista called it “the most important match in our history.”

Cabo Verde's Historic Rise In FIFA World Cup

Cape Verde is one of the tournament’s longest shots and drew notice by holding Spain to a draw in their opening match. They reached the round of 32 with three draws, making them the only team to advance without a victory. Spain, the 2010 champion, qualified; Uruguay did not.

Argentina midfielder Rodrigo de Paul said the draw meant they could have faced two world champions in this round. Argentina expected Spain or Uruguay, but Cape Verde took that place. Argentina won all three group matches, with Messi starring in each one, and now the knockout stage leaves no margin for error.

Bubista Rallies Cry Against Argentina

Bubista said Cape Verde will try to be aggressive on set pieces and control possession when possible. Their defence allowed only two goals in three group matches and kept Spain scoreless. He said the team will play against the whole Argentina side, not just Messi, while staying aware of the task.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said the result of Cape Verde’s group stage was no surprise. “We are not surprised, to be honest,” Scaloni said. “They are a good team. And they are not here by chance. We must respect them. And that’s what we will do.”