David v Goliath: Cape Verde chases World Cup history against Messi’s Argentina

A classic David versus Goliath encounter is set to unfold at the World Cup as tiny Cape Verde faces Lionel Messi and Argentina for a spot in the last 16. Cape Verde, the smallest nation ever to reach the knockout rounds, are dreaming of pulling off what would be the greatest upset in World Cup history when they meet the defending champions in Miami.

The Atlantic archipelago has emerged as one of the fairytale stories of this year's expanded 48-team tournament. They defied expectations by securing a draw with Spain and then narrowly advancing to the last 32 ahead of Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. Argentina, who comfortably reached the knockout rounds with six goals from captain Messi, are expected to defeat the African qualifiers and continue their quest for back-to-back World Cup titles.

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We are calm because we earned our place here on merit and there is nothing to fear or worry too much about. We know the importance of the match ahead. It is the match of our lives, but we are going to enjoy it and give our best.

Despite the daunting challenge, Cape Verde players insist they will not be intimidated by the occasion or the prospect of playing against the reigning world champions and eight-time Ballon d'Or winner. "We are calm because we earned our place here on merit and there is nothing to fear or worry too much about," said Cape Verde coach Bubista. "We know the importance of the match ahead. It is the match of our lives, but we are going to enjoy it and give our best."

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Everything is an honour and a reward, and we see Argentina as a game like this, another chance to make history. So why not? We will give everything and then at the end of the game we will see.

Midfielder Deroy Duarte echoed this sentiment, stating that the team relishes the opportunity to make history. "Everything is an honour and a reward, and we see Argentina as a game like this, another chance to make history," Duarte said. "So why not? We will give everything and then at the end of the game we will see."

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni, preparing for his 100th game in charge, stressed that his team will not underestimate their opponents. "This is a team that hasn’t lost," Scaloni noted. "They aren’t here by accident. We have to respect them, and that is what we will do." A victory for Argentina would pit them against either Australia or Egypt in the next round.

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This is a team that hasn’t lost. They aren’t here by accident. We have to respect them, and that is what we will do.