World Cup: Cape Verde dreams of historic upset against Messi's Argentina

A classic David versus Goliath encounter is set to unfold at the World Cup as Cape Verde, the smallest nation ever to reach the knockout rounds, prepares to face Lionel Messi and Argentina for a spot in the last 16. The Atlantic archipelago has emerged as one of the tournament's fairytale stories, defying expectations with a draw against Spain and advancing ahead of Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.

Argentina, bolstered by six goals from captain Messi, is heavily favored to defeat the African qualifiers and continue their quest for consecutive World Cup titles. However, Cape Verde insists they will not be intimidated by the occasion or the prospect of playing against the reigning world champions and the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.

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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.

"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 honor 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.

Netherlands-born midfielder Deroy Duarte echoed this sentiment, stating that the minnows relish the chance to make history. "Everything is an honor 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, marking his 100th game in charge, acknowledged his team's unbeaten group stage record but stressed they would not underestimate their opponents. "This is a team that hasn't lost," Scaloni said. "They aren't here by accident. We have to respect them, and that is what we will do." A win for Argentina would set up a last 16 clash against either Australia or Egypt.

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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.