Miami, July 3 -- Lionel Messi will lead Argentina from the start as the reigning world champions begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout campaign against tournament debutants Cabo Verde, with the team sheets confirming the captain's place in the starting XI for the Round of 32 encounter.

The match marks another historic milestone for Messi, who becomes the first player to make 30 appearances at the FIFA World Cup, according to Reuters.

The Argentine captain, already the tournament's all-time leading scorer, continues to add to his remarkable legacy as Argentina chase back-to-back world titles after their triumph in Qatar in 2022.

Messi has been one of the standout performers of the ongoing tournament, combining his experience, vision ...