Argentina vs Cape Verde live updates: Lionel Messi and the world champs continue repeat pursuit
Lionel Messi and Argentina are five games from becoming the first nation to win back-to-back World Cup since Brazil more than 60 years ago, as they begin their knockout round quest against minnows Cape Verde in Miami on Friday (6 pm ET).
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Messi scored six times in three group games to finish top with 9-of-9 points, proving that even at the age of 39 (his birthday was during the group stage), he is still one of the best handful of players in the world. He and Kylian Mbappe are tied in the race for the Golden Boot with six goals thus far, though France have already played in the round of 32.
Cape Verde are the darlings of the 2026 World Cup, having thoroughly impressed to finish 2nd in their group, ahead of Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. The Blue Sharks will need to summon the spirit of their opening performance against Spain, and then some, to give themselves a chance against the reigning world champions.
Below are all of the live updates you need from Argentina vs Cape Verde in Miami, with analysis, videos, reaction and more.
Argentina vs Cape Verde live score: 1-0
Goalscorers: Lionel Messi (29′)
