If Argentina keep relying so heavily on Lionel Messi for decisive moments, defending their World Cup title will become an increasingly difficult challenge.

Following Argentina's nerve-wracking 3-2 win over Cape Verde in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32, Lionel Messi praised the debutants, acknowledging that the small island nation had forced the defending champions to dig deep in Miami to secure a hard-fought spot in the Round of 16 against Egypt.

A high-flying Argentina take on a resolute Cape Verde side in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Check out all the important details of the match right here.

Messi recorded his ninth World Cup assist in Argentina’s 3-2 extra-time win over Cabo Verde, moving past Maradona’s record of eight.

With yesterday's matches concluded, the round of 32 draw will begin. At 7:00 PM Italian time today, the World Cup enters its most delicate phase with the first two round of 16 matches. Here are the match schedules and probable lineups.