Argentina vs Cape Verde – Prediction, where to watch, kick-off time and line-ups 03-07

Argentina and Cape Verde meet in the round of 32 of the World Cup 2026 for what promises to be an exciting knockout match. The game takes place this Friday, 3 July, at 11 PM (BST) at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.

The defending champions enter this phase with a perfect record, having won all their group-stage matches comfortably. In contrast, Cape Verde are the fairytale story of the tournament, making history as the smallest nation to reach the knockouts after remaining unbeaten in their group.

Find out our expert betting tips for Argentina vs. Cape Verde, where to watch all the action, and the probable line-ups for this intriguing encounter.

Argentina vs. Cape Verde - Head-to-head record

This World Cup knockout clash marks the first-ever competitive meeting between Argentina and Cape Verde. With no prior encounters, this match begins a new chapter for both sides, adding unpredictability to an already high-stakes game. The absence of shared history ensures a fascinating contest.

The historical contrast is stark. Argentina, the defending world champions, boast a rich footballing past, while Cape Verde are the tournament’s fairytale, debuting and becoming the smallest nation to reach the knockout stages. Consequently, no Argentina vs. Cape Verde stats are available for analysis.

Argentina - Continuing their winning form

Argentina enters the knockout stage with an impressive winning streak in the World Cup. Here, we will take a closer look at the defending champions’ current form and their recent displays. We will also analyse their overall performance in the competition.

Recent form

Argentina have stormed into the knockout stages, showcasing the excellent form that made them world champions. They achieved a perfect record in the World Cup group stage, winning all three of their matches. Their attack has been formidable, scoring eight times while the defence has been rock-solid, conceding only a single goal.

This dominant run in the World Cup is no surprise, extending an impressive winning streak across all recent fixtures. The South American giants have won their last nine games, combining friendlies and tournament matches. Injury data for Argentina says that Balerdi won’t play this match.

Leading the charge is the talismanic Lionel Messi, who has been in sensational form, scoring an incredible six goals in just three appearances. His clinical finishing has been a key factor, and his presence alone gives the team immense confidence. This individual brilliance, combined with a cohesive team performance, positions Argentina as the clear favourites in this match.

Results of the last five matches

Probable line-up for Argentina

Martínez E.; Molina, Romero, Medina, Martínez Li.; de Paul, Fernández, Mac Allister, Almada; Messi, Martínez L.

Manager: Lionel Scaloni.

Cape Verde - Making history at the World Cup

Let’s review Cape Verde’s current situation. We will analyse the team’s momentum, their expectations and standout players for the clash against the champions.

Recent form

Cape Verde has made history as the smallest nation to reach the World Cup knockout stages, finishing their group unbeaten. They secured qualification with three draws: 0-0 against Spain, 2-2 with Uruguay, and another 0-0 versus Saudi Arabia. This saw them earn 3 points, scoring two goals and conceding two, showcasing immense defensive resilience.

Coach Bubista has instilled strong discipline and unity within the squad. Goalkeeper Vozinha was a standout performer, especially with crucial saves against Spain, supported by an exceptionally organised defensive unit. The African side has one reported player whose presence is questionable, Arcanjo.

Despite being underdogs in the Argentina vs. Cape Verde clash, their journey proves they are not to be underestimated. Their strategy will involve frustrating top-tier opponents with a compact defensive setup. Playing without pressure, this resilient Cape Verde team could prove a dangerous and unpredictable opponent for the reigning champions.

Results of the last five matches

Probable line-up for Cape Verde

Vozinha; João Paulo, Lopes, Borges, Pina; Lopes Cabral, Lenini, Monteiro, Mendes,  Duarte; Livramento.

Manager: Bubista.

Argentina vs. Cape Verde - Stats

• Argentina have kept clean sheets in two of their three World Cup matches so far.
• The defending champions average 2.67 goals per game in the tournament.
• Cape Verde have remained unbeaten, securing two clean sheets in their three group-stage games.
• The Blue Sharks’ matches in the competition average 1.33 total goals.
• Argentina: Lionel Messi has scored 75% of his team’s goals in the tournament.
• Cape Verde: Midfielder Kevin Pina has scored one of the team’s two goals.

Predictions for Argentina vs. Cape Verde - champions to prevail

Argentina enter as strong favourites, boasting a perfect record and a formidable attack led by Lionel Messi. The defending champions will aim to dominate from the start. They are a strong choice to be leading at half-time.

Cape Verde, the tournament"s surprise package, have built their success on a rock-solid defence, securing draws against Spain and Uruguay. Their disciplined approach suggests both teams may not score in the first half. This highlights their defensive strength.

Despite the African side"s resilience, Argentina"s superior quality should ultimately prove decisive. Our main prediction is for an Argentina win with a “-1.5 Asian Handicap", expecting them to win by at least two goals.

Argentina x Cape Verde
Tip	Tip	Best Odd
Money Line	Argentina to be winning at half-time	1.50 at BetMGM
Both Teams to Score	Both teams not to score in the first half	1.08 at BetMGM

The odds mentioned were collected at the time of writing this prediction and are subject to change. Always check the bookmaker"s site for up-to-date information.

Best markets to bet on Argentina vs. Cape Verde

Here are some more recommended bets on Argentina vs. Cape Verde for this exciting knockout stage match.

🔥 Total Goals - First Half: Over 0.5 - 1.27 at BetMGM

Argentina"s powerful attack will likely put pressure on from the start. We expect the defending champions to break the deadlock in the first half of the game, making this a solid option.

🔥 Asian Handicap: Argentina -1.75 - 1.73 at BetMGM

The South American side has won their last three games by at least a two-goal margin. Therefore, another comfortable victory is on the cards for them in this fixture.

Where to watch Argentina vs. Cape Verde?

Here is where to watch Argentina vs. Cape Verde live:

• TV: BBC Sport (Gbr), ITV 1 (Gbr), ITV X (Gbr), BBC One (Gbr), STV (Gbr), STV Player (Gbr), UTV (Gbr)
• Streaming: BBC iPlayer (Gbr), BBC Radio 5 Live (Gbr), BBC Sport app (Gbr)

Argentina vs. Cape Verde - Match details

Check out the match details:

• Match: Argentina vs. Cape Verde
• Competition: World Cup 2026
• Date: 03/07/2026
• Kick-off: 11 PM (BST)
• Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, United States
• Broadcast: BBC One (Gbr), BBC Sport (Gbr), UTV (Gbr), BBC iPlayer (Gbr),  BBC Sport app (Gbr), BBC Radio 5 Live (Gbr),ITV 1 (Gbr), ITV X (Gbr), STV (Gbr), STV Player (Gbr)

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