World Cup 2026: Argentina Won’t Retain Title

World Cup 2026: Argentina Won’t Retain Title — Ian Wright

Ian Wright believes Argentina are vulnerable despite beating Cape Verde, insisting stronger teams can exploit their weaknesses and stop the defending champions retaining the World Cup.

Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright has cast doubt on Argentina’s chances of successfully defending their FIFA World Cup title, insisting the reigning champions have clear weaknesses that stronger opponents can exploit.

Wright made the remarks after Lionel Scaloni’s side laboured to a 3-2 extra-time victory over Cape Verde in their Round of 32 clash in Miami.

Argentina took an early lead through captain Lionel Messi, but Cape Verde responded impressively as Deroy Duarte equalised to force the match into extra time.

Defender Lisandro Martinez restored Argentina’s advantage before Sidny Cabral struck a superb equaliser for the African side to make it 2-2.

However, the South American champions found the decisive goal in the 111th minute to book their place in the Round of 16.

Despite the victory, Wright believes Argentina’s performance exposed vulnerabilities that could prove costly against stronger opposition later in the tournament.

Speaking on ITV, the former England international said the Albiceleste were far from convincing and suggested that teams with greater attacking quality than Cape Verde would fancy their chances against them.

“They are there to be beaten,” Wright said.

“If you can give the same kind of endeavour we saw Cape Verde give, but you have more quality in the final third, then Argentina are there to be beaten.”

Wright particularly highlighted Argentina’s defensive frailties in wide areas, arguing that opponents could exploit those positions.

“I think in the wide areas they are very weak. You can get at them in those areas,” he added.

Argentina remain among the favourites to lift the World Cup for a second consecutive time, having won the tournament in Qatar four years ago.

However, their narrow escape against Cape Verde has sparked debate over whether Lionel Scaloni’s men possess the defensive solidity required to navigate the knockout rounds.

The victory nevertheless keeps Argentina’s title defence alive as they prepare for a tougher Round of 16 encounter, where they will hope to deliver a more convincing performance and continue their quest for another World Cup triumph.