Lionel Messi Leads Argentina in Historic World Cup Clash Against Cabo Verde

Lionel Messi is set to lead Argentina in their knockout stage opener against Cabo Verde in the FIFA World Cup 2026. This match is historic as Messi makes his 30th World Cup appearance, aiming to guide Argentina to another title after their 2022 victory. With a strong lineup and Messi's impressive performance, Argentina looks to continue their title defense. Cabo Verde, making their tournament debut, hopes to make a mark as they face the reigning champions. The stakes are high as the winner advances to the Round of 16.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 4, 2026, 04:12 IST

Argentina's Knockout Stage Begins

Miami, Florida - On July 4, Lionel Messi is set to captain Argentina as they embark on their FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout journey, facing off against Cabo Verde, who are making their tournament debut. The official team sheets confirm Messi's inclusion in the starting lineup for this Round of 32 match.

This match is particularly significant for Messi, as he becomes the first player to achieve 30 appearances in FIFA World Cup history, marking another milestone in his illustrious career.

As the all-time leading scorer of the tournament, Messi aims to help Argentina secure consecutive world titles following their victory in Qatar in 2022.

Throughout the tournament, Messi has showcased his exceptional skills, blending experience and vision to propel Argentina into the knockout stages.

At 39 years old, he currently shares the top spot in the Golden Boot race with six goals, tied with France's Kylian Mbappe.

Argentina's head coach, Lionel Scaloni, has assembled a formidable squad, featuring Lautaro Martinez alongside Messi in the attack, while Julian Alvarez starts on the bench. Thiago Almada rounds out the front three, supported by Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, and Enzo Fernandez in midfield.

In goal, Emiliano Martinez will defend a backline that includes Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, and Facundo Medina.

This match also marks a significant milestone for Scaloni, who will be managing Argentina for the 100th time since taking the helm in 2018.

Cabo Verde is bolstered by the return of left-back Sidny Lopes Cabral, who is back in the starting lineup after serving a suspension. However, midfielder Telmo Arcanjo, who was uncertain due to a leg injury, will only be available from the bench.

Ryan Mendes leads the African team as captain, with veteran goalkeeper Vozinha starting behind defenders Diney Borges, Pico Lopes, Sidny Lopes Cabral, and Steven Moreira. The starting XI is completed by Kevin Pina, Deroy Duarte, Laros Duarte, Jovane Cabral, and Nuno da Costa.

The winner of this knockout match will advance to the Round of 16, where they will face Egypt, who recently eliminated Australia in a penalty shootout in Dallas. Argentina is eager to continue their title defense with Messi at the forefront.

Argentina vs Cabo Verde – Starting Lineups

Argentina: Emiliano Martinez, Lisandro Martinez, Cristian Romero, Facundo Medina, Nahuel Molina, Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez, Lionel Messi (captain), Thiago Almada, Lautaro Martinez.

Cabo Verde: Vozinha, Diney Borges, Pico Lopes, Sidny Lopes Cabral, Steven Moreira, Kevin Pina, Jovane Cabral, Deroy Duarte, Laros Duarte, Ryan Mendes (captain), Nuno da Costa.