World Cup 2026: We’ll Face Argentina with the Right Attitude — Cape Verde Coach

Cape Verde head coach Bubista has said his side will approach their Round of 32 clash against defending champions Argentina with confidence, discipline and the right attitude after making history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The West African nation booked a place in the knockout stage in its debut World Cup appearance after playing out a goalless draw against Saudi Arabia on Friday.

The result ensured Cape Verde finished second in Group H with three points, remaining unbeaten in a group that also featured former world champions Spain and Uruguay.

Their qualification makes Cape Verde the smallest nation in history to reach the knockout phase of the FIFA World Cup, marking a remarkable achievement for the island nation.

Reacting after the historic qualification, Bubista admitted that reaching the Round of 32 had exceeded expectations but said the team always believed it was possible after their encouraging performances in the opening matches.

“It’s a bit of a shock, although we’d always had it in mind that we might reach this stage after the first two matches,” Bubista said.

“We told the players they had to work hard and have confidence because the reward would come. And here we are. The people of Cape Verde should be proud of what this team has done so far. It’s something incredible.”

Cape Verde will now face reigning world champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, in the Round of 32.

Despite acknowledging the quality within the Argentine squad, Bubista said his players would not be intimidated and would remain true to their style of play.

“They have Messi, who needs no introduction. We represent our island, but we also represent Africa. It’s a source of immense pride,” he said.

“We’ll play our game with the right attitude and a sense of responsibility, but also with our own personality and character.”

The coach stressed that qualifying for the knockout stage has already inspired millions of Cape Verdeans and demonstrated that determination and teamwork can overcome differences in size and reputation.

The Round of 32 encounter between Cape Verde and Argentina is scheduled for Friday, July 3, at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.

Cape Verde will be aiming to produce another upset as they seek to extend their fairytale run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.