Cape Verde will attempt one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history when they take on defending champions Argentina in Friday’s Round of 32 clash in Miami.
The Atlantic island nation, the smallest country ever to reach the knockout stage of the tournament, have emerged as one of the surprise packages after drawing with Spain and progressing ahead of Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.
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Standing in their way are Lionel Messi and Argentina, who cruised through the group stage with the captain scoring six goals as the holders chase back-to-back World Cup titles.
Despite the daunting challenge, Cape Verde coach Bubista said his side would approach the match with confidence.
“We are calm because we earned our place here on merit. It is the match of our lives, but we are going to enjoy it and give our best,” he said.
Midfielder Deroy Duarte also insisted the underdogs were ready to seize another opportunity to make history.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni warned against underestimating Cape Verde, noting that the African side remained unbeaten in the group stage.
“They aren’t here by accident. We have to respect them, and that is what we will do,” Scaloni said ahead of his 100th match in charge of Argentina.
The winners will face either Australia or Egypt in the Round of 16.
Elsewhere on Friday, Ghana will take on Colombia as they seek to become only the second African nation to reach the last 16 after Morocco. Five African teams, South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, DR Congo and Algeria, have already exited the tournament.
On Thursday, Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 after extra time to qualify for the next round, while Spain eased past Austria 3-0 to extend their unbeaten run to 35 matches.