Argentina vs Cape Verde LIVE: World Cup 2026 match stream, latest team news, lineups, TV, prediction | OneFootball

Minnows facing greatest challenge yet

Lionel Messi and Argentina will look to book their place in the last-16 of the World Cup this evening, facing Cape Verde in Miami. The self-described sharks Cape Verde are, in reality, considerable minnows heading into this match. They are the last remaining debutants at this tournament, and today face the unenviable prospect of lining up opposite one of the title favourites.

Cape Verde’s group stage campaign wrought goalless stalemates with Spain and Saudi Arabia either side of a 2-2 draw with Uruguay, but they will know that an even mightier performance will be required here if they are to pull off the mother of all upsets. This Argentina side is widely considered to be among the tournament favourites and will have been grateful that the draw handed them this matchup, but the reigning world champions will be wary of an ignominious slip-up.

The winner of this tie will book themselves a last-16 meeting with one of Australia or Egypt. Follow the action live below with Standard Sport’s dedicated match blog, complete with expert insight and analysis.