New Delhi, July 3 -- Reigning champions Argentina will aim to continue their commanding FIFA World Cup 2026 title defence when they take on tournament debutants Cape Verde in a Round of 32 showdown. While Lionel Messi and his teammates head into the knockout clash as overwhelming favourites, Cape Verde have emerged as one of the tournament's biggest surprise packages.

Their disciplined defending, resilience, and inspiring debut campaign have turned them into a dangerous underdog capable of testing even the world's best. Former England international Paul Masefield believes Argentina have the quality and experience to comfortably progress, but insists Cabo Verde deserve immense credit for their historic run to the knockout stages.

"Argent...