Argentina are set to face Cape Verde in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, with Lionel Scaloni expected to field his strongest available lineup after rotating for the previous match. The defending champions secured a 3-1 victory over Jordan in their final group game, but the manager made several changes, resting key players including Lionel Messi, who started on the bench.
Team News and Predicted Lineup
Scaloni is likely to revert to his preferred starting XI for this knockout clash. Emiliano Martinez is expected to continue in goal, having started every match so far. Nahuel Molina should return at right-back, while Facundo Medina will be restored on the left. The centre-back pairing is set to be Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez, both of whom play in the Premier League. Romero had been a doubt after being substituted against Austria with a knee injury, but he has been pictured back in training and is expected to be fit.
In midfield, Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernandez are likely to reunite in the engine room, with Rodrigo De Paul and Thiago Almada retaining their places out wide. Scaloni also has Nico Gonzalez and Giuliano Simeone as options to change the dynamic. Up front, Lionel Messi will start, with Lautaro Martinez expected to partner him after scoring against Jordan, ahead of Julian Alvarez.
Opposition and Match Details
Cape Verde have surprised many by reaching the knockout stages, but Argentina are heavy favourites. The match kicks off at 11pm BST on Friday, July 3, 2026, at the Miami Stadium in Florida. It will be broadcast live on ITV.
