Argentina vs. Cape Verde projected lineups, starting 11 for World Cup Round of 32 game in Miami

Argentina take on Cape Verde in Miami in a World Cup Round of 32 match that pits the defending champions against the smallest nation ever to reach the knockout stage.

Lionel Scaloni's side swept Group J with three wins from three, beating Algeria 3-0, Austria 2-0 and Jordan 3-1. Lionel Messi, in what is expected to be his final World Cup, sits among the tournament's top scorers.

Cape Verde reached the last 32 without winning a game, drawing all three group matches, 0-0 with Spain, 2-2 with Uruguay and 0-0 with Saudi Arabia, to finish second in Group H on the back of their defensive discipline. Argentina are overwhelming favourites, but the Blue Sharks have conceded just twice all tournament and will look to frustrate.

Here is how we expect the teams to line up.

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Argentina projected starting 11

(4-4-2, right to left): 23. E. Martinez (GK) — 26. N. Molina, 13. C. Romero, 6. Li. Martinez, 25. F. Medina — 7. R. De Paul, 24. E. Fernandez, 20. A. Mac Allister, 16. T. Almada — 10. L. Messi, 22. La. Martinez

• Injured: None
• Suspended: None

Scaloni has a fully fit squad and will likely restore his first-choice lineup.

Emiliano Martinez continues in goal behind a back four that should see the returns of Lisandro Martinez and Facundo Medina.

The front line is the pick of the tournament, with Messi supported by Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez offering another option. Enzo Fernandez, Rodrigo De Paul and Alexis Mac Allister will  control the midfield.

Cape Verde projected starting 11

(4-3-3, right to left): 1. Vozinha (GK) — 25. K. Pires, 4. R. Lopes, 5. L. Costa, 2. Stopira — 7. J. Cabral, 6. K. Pina, 14. D. Duarte — 11. G. Rodrigues, 9. Benchimol, 10. J. Monteiro

• Injured: T. Acanjo (muscle, doubt)
• Suspended: None

Bubista's side have no injury concerns aside from a muscle complaint for Telmo Acanjo.

They are expected to set up to defend deep and counter. Captain and centre-back Roberto "Pico" Lopes anchors a back line that has conceded just twice at the tournament. Kevin Pina provides the midfield shield in front of the defence, with Benchimol leading the line and Jovane Cabral, Garry Rodrigues and Jamiro Monteiro tasked with carrying the rare Cape Verde break.

Argentina vs. Cape Verde predictions, betting odds

The gulf in quality is vast. Cape Verde's blocks-and-goalkeeper plan has carried them further than anyone expected, but Messi and Argentina's front line should have far too much for the debutants over 90 minutes. 

• Score prediction: Argentina 3-0 Cape Verde

Argentina vs. Cape Verde World Cup rosters

Here are the names on the Argentina vs. Cape Verde World Cup rosters, as named for the 2026 tournament.

Argentina World Cup roster

Head coach: Lionel Scaloni

Cape Verde World Cup roster

Head coach: Pedro Leitao "Bubista" Brito

Where to watch Argentina vs. Cape Verde

•  TV channel: Fox
• Live stream: fubo, Fox One, Fox Sports app/website

This match will be broadcast nationally on Fox in the United States with streaming options available on its dedicated platforms.

The best place to catch the match is on streaming service fubo, with new customers able to sign up for a FREE trial.

Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)

Here is how to watch the match in some of the other major territories: