Messi Reflects On Performance Issues After Cape Verde Challenge Match
Messi stresses improvements after challenging international fixture performance.
Argentina secured a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 after a dramatic 3-2 victory over Cape Verde in a tightly contested knockout match that went into extra time. The match saw Lionel Messi score once and provide an assist, but the defending champions were pushed to their limits by the debutant African side, who twice fought back to level the score before an own goal decided the outcome.
Speaking after the match, Argentina captain Lionel Messi acknowledged that while qualification was achieved, the team’s performance exposed several areas that need improvement. He said the squad must take positives from the game but also address mistakes that could prove costly in later stages of the tournament. Messi stressed that consistency, control and better execution will be crucial moving forward.
Messi admitted that Argentina struggled to maintain control after taking the lead, noting lapses in ball possession and defensive pressure that allowed Cape Verde to repeatedly return into the contest. He said the team initially expected more control after scoring first but instead found themselves under sustained pressure from an energetic and disciplined opponent.
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The forward also highlighted that knockout football leaves no margin for error, pointing out that even lower-ranked teams can pose serious challenges. He emphasized that every match in the tournament demands full focus, intensity and discipline, as opponents are capable of exploiting small mistakes at the highest level of competition.
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni also praised Cape Verde for their resilience and fighting spirit, describing them as a strong and well-organised team. He noted that both sides appeared physically exhausted after an intense encounter but credited Argentina’s determination for ultimately securing progression to the next round. With the victory, Argentina advance to face Egypt in the Round of 16 on July 7 in Atlanta, as they continue their campaign to defend the World Cup title. The team will now look to recover and refine their approach ahead of another high-pressure knockout fixture.
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