Defending champions Argentina kick off their knockout stage campaign on Friday with a Round of 32 clash against Cape Verde at Miami Stadium in Florida.
Argentina head into the knockout rounds in dominant form, carrying an impressive ten-match winning streak across all competitions. The world champions were flawless in Group J, collecting the maximum nine points.
They began their title defence with a convincing 3-0 win over Algeria, followed it up with a solid 2-0 victory against Austria, and concluded the group stage with a controlled 3-1 win over Jordan. These results firmly underline their position as one of the strongest contenders in the tournament.
Argentina team news
Lionel Scaloni’s side also benefits from having a fully fit squad available, giving the manager plenty of options ahead of this crucial fixture.
Lionel Messi is set to return to the starting lineup after being rested and used only as a second-half substitute in the final group game against Jordan. The Argentine captain is currently leading the Golden Boot race with six goals in the competition.
Midfielder Alexis Mac Allister is also expected to come back into the starting XI after being rested in the same match.
In defence, Cristian Romero has recovered from a minor knee issue picked up against Austria and is now fit to start. He is likely to partner Lisandro Martínez at centre-back.
In attack, Lautaro Martínez is expected to start alongside Messi, while Julián Álvarez may be used later in the game as an impact option from the bench.
Scaloni is expected to name his strongest possible lineup as Argentina aims to move comfortably into the next round.
Argentina predicted lineup
Possible Argentina starting XI: E. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Lisandro M., Medina; De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernandez, Almada; Messi, Lautaro M.
When will the match kick off?
The match will kick off at 11pm BST on Friday, 3rd July.
How to watch Argentina vs Cape Verde?
For viewers in the United Kingdom, the Argentina vs Cape Verde World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match will be broadcast live on ITV1.
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