World Cup: Cape Verde coach outlines approach for Argentina knockout clash

Cape Verde has achieved a historic milestone by qualifying for the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in their very first appearance. This remarkable feat makes them the smallest nation ever to reach this stage of the prestigious tournament.

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It’s a bit of a shock, although we’d always had it in mind that we might reach this stage after the first two matches.

The West African team secured their place in the round of 32 after a goalless draw against Saudi Arabia on Friday. They finished second in Group H with three points, remaining undefeated in a challenging group that also included Spain and Uruguay. Their next opponent in the round of 32 is the formidable defending champions, Argentina.

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The people of Cape Verde should be proud of what this team has done so far. It’s something incredible.

Speaking after the draw against Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde's coach, Bubista, admitted that the team's achievement has been somewhat surprising, though they had harbored hopes of reaching this stage. "We told the players they had to work hard and have confidence because the reward would come. And here we are," Bubista stated. "The people of Cape Verde should be proud of what this team has done so far. It’s something incredible."

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We represent our island, but we also represent Africa. It’s a source of immense pride.

Despite the daunting prospect of facing Lionel Messi's Argentina, Coach Bubista emphasized that his team will approach the match with the "right attitude" and maintain their distinct "personality and character." He acknowledged the honor of playing against a team with a player like Messi, stating, "We represent our island, but we also represent Africa. It’s a source of immense pride." Cape Verde is set to play Argentina on Friday, July 3, at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.

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We’ll play our game with the right attitude and a sense of responsibility, but also with our own personality and character.