World Cup 2026: Messi Pinpoints What Argentina Did Wrong Against Cape Verde

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has identified his side’s inability to press effectively as the key problem during their hard-fought victory over Cape Verde in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Argentina eventually progressed to the Round of 16 after defeating the Blue Sharks 3-2 following extra time at the Miami Stadium.

The South American champions were made to work for qualification after the match finished 1-1 at the end of regulation time before they secured victory in the additional 30 minutes.

An own goal by Diney Borges ultimately proved decisive as Lionel Scaloni’s men survived a spirited challenge from the African side.

Despite advancing, Messi admitted Argentina fell below their usual standards and struggled to impose themselves for long periods of the encounter.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner said the team failed to apply coordinated pressure on Cape Verde, allowing their opponents to dominate possession and dictate the tempo of the game.

Speaking after the match, Messi explained that the distance between Argentina’s defensive and midfield lines made it difficult for the team to press collectively.

“I think we couldn’t press them well, our lines were kind of far apart at times,” Messi said, according to FIFA’s official website.

“When we wanted to jump from the defensive pivot, it was too far a distance for the centre-backs, and we ended up a bit disjointed,” he added.

The Inter Miami forward noted that Cape Verde consistently found an extra player in possession because Argentina could not match up effectively across the pitch.

“They always had an extra man because we couldn’t match up, and that’s why they kept the ball and made us run, because we couldn’t press them properly,” Messi said.

Argentina eventually found a way through in extra time, but the performance raised questions about their defensive organisation ahead of tougher knockout fixtures.

Scaloni’s side will now shift attention to the Round of 16, where they hope to improve their overall display as they continue their bid to defend the World Cup title.

Cape Verde, meanwhile, exited the tournament with their reputation enhanced after pushing one of the competition’s favourites to extra time in an impressive performance.