Cape Verde starting lineup vs Argentina confirmed for FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match

Argentina and Cape Verde are set to meet for the first time.

Cape Verde will face defending champions Argentina in their round of 32 clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The game will be played at the Miami Stadium in Florida on Friday, July 4.

World Cup debuts, Cape Verde’s journey in the ongoing tournament has been nothing short of a fairy tale. They are also the smallest nation to ever qualify for the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup.

The Blue Sharks started their World Cup campaign in North America with a goalless draw against European champions, Spain. Vozinha scripted history by helping his side secure their first-ever World Cup point by making seven saves and keeping a flawless record against Luis de la Fuente’s side.

Cape Verde also secured a point against Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay in their second game. Kevin Pina became the nation’s first-ever goalscorer in the global tournament before Hello Varela netted the second against La Celeste, levelling the game at 2-2.

The Blue Sharks played their third consecutive draw against Saudi Arabia in their last group game against Saudi Arabia. With three points in three games, the African side finished second in Group H, only behind Spain, who recently defeated Austria 3-0 to qualify for the Round of 16.

However, they are not ready to face their biggest challenge in the ongoing FIFA World Cup. Whatever the result of the match will be, Cape Verde have already added golden pages of glory in their football history books.

Also Read: List of referees & officials for Argentina vs Cape Verde FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match

Cape Verde lineup for the FIFA World Cup match against Argentina

Cape Verde Predicted XI: Vozinha (WK); Steven Moreira, Pico, Diney Borges, Sidny Lopes Cabral; Kevin Pina; Ryan Mendes, Deroy Duarte, Laros Duarte, Jovane Cabral; Nuno da Costa

Thoughts on the lineup

Veteran goalkeeper will keep the gloves for the Blue Sharks in their maiden knockout round game at the World Cup. Their backline, consisting of Steven Moreira, Pico, Diney Borges, and Sidny Lopes Cabral, will remain unchanged for the round-of-32 clash, as they have gained experience as a unit in the group stage.

Kevin Pina will play as the holding midfielder, while Deroy Duarte and Laros Duarte will help control the tempo and support the tactical framework. Ryan Mendes and Jovane Cabral will help the team, while Nuno da Costa will feature in the middle as the frontman.

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