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Messi’s 19th Goal Sets Argentina vs Cape Verde Showdown

7/3/2026

43 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Argentina vs Cape Verde

Argentina will meet Cape Verde on July 3, 2026 in the Round of 32 at Hard Rock Stadium.
Argentina entered after winning all three group games, with Lionel Messi netting six to reach 19 World Cup goals.
Cape Verde advanced, drawing Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia, while keeper Josimar “Vozinha” Dias made ten saves.
Bookmakers list Argentina at -550 and Cape Verde at +1450, while tickets sell for about $2,300.

Summary

Mendes Investigated

Police in New Zealand are investigating Cape Verde captain Ryan Mendes for an alleged rape of a Brazilian team translator following a March FIFA Series match.
Authorities have not filed charges, leaving Mendes on the squad pending the probe’s outcome.
Cape Verde entered the tournament ranked 67th, the lowest-ranked side to reach the knockout stage.
Goalkeeper Josimar “Vozinha” Dias, 40, kept two clean sheets and made ten saves, anchoring the run.

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Argentina vs Cape Verde

Argentina will meet Cape Verde on July 3, 2026 in the Round of 32 at Hard Rock Stadium.
Argentina entered after winning all three group games, with Lionel Messi netting six to reach 19 World Cup goals.
Cape Verde advanced, drawing Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia, while keeper Josimar “Vozinha” Dias made ten saves.
Bookmakers list Argentina at -550 and Cape Verde at +1450, while tickets sell for about $2,300.

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