Argentina Eyes Cape Verde in Round-of-32 After Strong Group Stage Performance

Argentina’s attention shifts to Cape Verde after dominant Group J campaign

Argentina, top of Group J, secured their place in the round-of-32 with a 3-1 win over Jordan on Saturday. The team, led by Lionel Messi who scored six goals, also defeated Algeria (3-0) and Austria (2-0). Despite initial suggestions that Cape Verde’s debut could be straightforward, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni emphasized their formidable challenge.

Scaloni stated, “It’s pointless for me to sit here and say they’re not a tough opponent, because that would be a lie. Maybe for many it’s not like that, but I can assure you they are a good team and will make things difficult for us.”

The coach’s words echo among the players who have remained cautious despite their near-perfect group stage performance.

“We always focus on ourselves; any opponent is difficult,” said winger Giuliano Simeone. “We have to try to do the most damage possible with our best weapons.”

Midfielder Leandro Paredes added, “We achieved the first objective, which was to go through, and now we want more. From tomorrow, we’ll prepare for the match with Cape Verde.”

Argentina were due to return to training in Kansas City on Sunday but the session was cancelled. The Argentine FA said the squad will have a day off today and resume training tomorrow.

Defender Cristian Romero, who picked up an injury against Austria, is unavailable for the Jordan match. For midfielder Giovani Lo Celso, it marked his World Cup debut after missing the 2018 tournament due to injury. He scored with a 19th-minute free kick, highlighting his importance and perseverance in the team.

Scaloni praised Lo Celso’s resilience, stating, “He’s been with us from day one, a spectacular boy who missed the last World Cup in a cruel way. We’re happy for him, because he’s important for the group.”