Cape Verde President Jose Maria Neves has sent a bold message to Lionel Messi and Argentina ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash, predicting a 1-0 victory for his debutant team. The Blue Sharks made history by reaching the knockout stage in their first-ever World Cup appearance, finishing as one of the best third-placed teams after three draws.
Historic Run for Cape Verde
Cape Verde qualified for the World Cup for the first time in their history and stunned observers by advancing past the group stage. They secured draws in all three group matches, including a shock opening-day result against favorites Spain, followed by solid performances against Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. This achievement made them the first team in 28 years to reach the knockout stage after three draws and the first debutant since Senegal in 2002 to avoid defeat.
President Neves Sends Message to Argentina
President Jose Maria Neves addressed Lionel Messi and the Argentine squad directly, expressing unwavering belief in his team's ability to pull off an upset. "I think Cape Verde can beat Argentina 1-0. We are playing to win... when expectations are low regarding a team, and if that team has the urge to win, it is possible," Neves told the BBC. He emphasized that Cape Verde entered the tournament with faith, hope, and determination to fight for the nation's honor. "100% faith, 100% hope, and it would completely sweat out its jersey. So, we have a 100% chance to win against Argentina. We went to this World Cup to write our own destiny, which is facing champions," he added.
Argentina's Formidable Challenge
Argentina, the defending champions, finished top of Group J with dominant wins over Algeria, Jordan, and Austria. They remain one of the favorites to win the tournament, led by Lionel Messi. Despite the daunting task, Neves insisted his team would face Argentina with the same determination. "So, we are going to face Argentina and Messi with the same determination, same will, and with a desire to win and reach the next phase," he said.
Forlan Urges Cape Verde to Enjoy the Moment
2010 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot winner Diego Forlan offered advice to Cape Verde, encouraging them to savor the experience. "They're enjoying it. I think they're enjoying the game. This is their first time, the first time they have qualified, as well, to the next phase. They are playing Argentina. They don't have anything to lose," Forlan told the FIFA Podcast via CAF.
Records and Impact
Cape Verde's historic run has already set two unique records: becoming the first side in 28 years to reach the knockout stage after three draws, and the first debutant since Senegal in 2002 to avoid defeat. The Blue Sharks will now look to continue their fairy-tale journey against the reigning champions. As President Neves summed up, "A small nation like Cape Verde should make an effort to always do that - to permanently surprise people."
