Cape Verde face the biggest match in their football history when they take on Argentina in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Friday, July 3. After an impressive run to the knockout stage in their World Cup debut, Cape Verde now have the daunting task of facing the defending world champions for a place in the Round of 16.
Unlike the group stage, the FIFA World Cup knockout rounds are single-elimination, meaning only one team will advance.
Here’s what happens if Cape Verde win, tie or lose against Argentina.
If Cape Verde beat Argentina
A Cape Verde victory would send the African nation into the Round of 16 for the first time in its history.
They would eliminate one of the tournament favorites and advance to face the winner of Australia vs. Egypt on July 7. A win over Argentina would rank among the greatest upsets in FIFA World Cup history and continue Cape Verde’s remarkable Cinderella run.
If Cape Verde draw with Argentina
There are no draws in the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup.
If the match is level after 90 minutes, it will go to 30 minutes of extra time, split into two 15-minute halves.
If the teams remain tied after extra time, the match will be decided by a penalty shootout. The winner of the shootout will advance to the Round of 16, while the loser will be eliminated.
If Cape Verde lose to Argentina
A defeat would end Cape Verde’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.
Although elimination would be disappointing, Cape Verde would leave the tournament after making history by reaching the knockout stage in their first-ever World Cup appearance. Their performances throughout the competition have established them as one of the breakout stories of the 2026 tournament.
Who would Cape Verde face next?
Should Cape Verde defeat Argentina, they would advance to the Round of 16 to play the winner of Australia vs. Egypt.
The Round of 16 winner would then move on to the quarterfinals, bringing Cape Verde just three victories away from reaching the FIFA World Cup final.
Cape Verde vs Argentina kickoff time
Cape Verde and Argentina are scheduled to kick off at 6:00 p.m. ET on Friday, July 3, at Miami Stadium.
With a place in the Round of 16 on the line, Cape Verde will attempt to pull off one of the biggest shocks of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Lionel Scaloni’s defending champions.