27.06.2026 • Updated: 04.07.2026

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World Cup

Match Result Argentina vs Cape Verde Islands — 03.07.2026

Daniel Carter

Argentina

WWW

July 3, 2026

22:00

World Cup

3 — 2

Days

Hours

Minutes

Seconds

Cape Verde Islands

DDD

Argentina

Team Overview

In their latest World Cup match, Argentina faced Jordan away and secured a convincing 3-1 victory. This win continues their strong form in the tournament.

Match statistics (Jordan vs Argentina):

Possession: 27% – 73%
Corners: 2 – 6
Fouls: 13 – 7
Yellow cards: 3 – 0
Shots on target: 1 – 4

Cape Verde Islands

Team Overview

Cape Verde Islands played to a goalless draw against Saudi Arabia in their most recent World Cup fixture. This result reflects their ongoing struggle to find the back of the net.

Match statistics (Cape Verde Islands vs Saudi Arabia):

Possession: 51% – 49%
Corners: 4 – 2
Fouls: 10 – 16
Yellow cards: 1 – 3
Shots on target: 2 – 3

Argentina - Cape Verde Islands Match Result

Argentina edges Cape Verde Islands in a thrilling World Cup clash

In a captivating encounter, Argentina triumphed over Cape Verde Islands with a score of 3-2, securing their place in the Round of 32 of the World Cup. The match showcased a blend of tactical prowess and individual brilliance, particularly from Lionel Messi, who opened the scoring.

Argentina dominated possession with 64% and registered a total of 22 shots, 10 of which were on target. Messi's goal in the 29th minute, assisted by Lautaro Martinez, set the tone for the match. However, Cape Verde responded resiliently, with D. Duarte leveling the score in the 59th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse.

The match saw a flurry of substitutions as both coaches sought to influence the game. Argentina regained the lead in the dying moments of regulation time when Martinez scored in the 92nd minute, only for Cape Verde's Lopes Cabral to equalize shortly after in the 103rd minute.

Ultimately, it was an own goal by D. Borges in the 111th minute that sealed the victory for Argentina. The match was fiercely contested, reflected in the 13 fouls committed by Argentina and the 12 by Cape Verde. Both teams received a yellow card, adding to the match's intensity.

This encounter highlighted Argentina's attacking depth and resilience, while Cape Verde showcased their determination and ability to challenge a footballing giant. The tactical battle and the ebb and flow of the game made for an unforgettable World Cup spectacle.

Match Timeline

Goal

L. Messi • Assist: L. Martinez

29'

59'

Goal

D. Duarte • Assist: R. Mendes

Substitution

In: L. Martinez for J. Alvarez

63'

Substitution

In: T. Almada for N. Gonzalez

64'

67'

Substitution

In: L. Duarte for J. Monteiro

67'

Substitution

In: N. Da Costa for D. Livramento

68'

Yellow Card

K. Lenini • Yellow Card | Holding

80'

Substitution

In: R. Mendes for W. Semedo

80'

Substitution

In: J. Cabral for H. Varela

Substitution

In: R. de Paul for L. Paredes

84'

Substitution

In: F. Medina for N. Tagliafico

86'

Goal

L. Martinez • Assist: A. Mac Allister

92'

100'

Substitution

In: D. Duarte for Y. Semedo

100'

Substitution

In: K. Lenini for Benchimol

103'

Goal

S. Lopes Cabral • Assist: Y. Semedo

Substitution

In: N. Molina for G. Montiel

104'

Goal

D. Borges • Own Goal

111'

Yellow Card

G. Montiel • Yellow Card | Tripping

115'

Teams Form Analysis

Argentina has shown impressive form in their last three matches, scoring a total of 8 goals and conceding only 1, averaging 2.67 goals per game. Their attacking prowess has been evident, particularly in their last match where they secured a 3-1 victory against Jordan. In contrast, Cape Verde Islands have struggled, managing only 2 goals in their last three matches while conceding 2, indicating a lack of offensive efficiency.

Argentina's consistent winning streak in the group stage reflects their strong performance, while Cape Verde's recent matches have highlighted their difficulties in both scoring and defending, which could be a significant factor in this upcoming clash.

Statistical Analysis & Influencing Factors

In terms of statistical performance, Argentina's goals per game average of 2.67 significantly outpaces Cape Verde's 0.67. Additionally, Argentina's defense has been robust, allowing just 0.33 goals per game in their last three outings. The absence of recent competitive matches for Cape Verde may also impact their readiness and cohesion on the pitch. Furthermore, Argentina's superior xG (expected goals) metrics suggest they are creating more high-quality chances compared to Cape Verde, which could be pivotal in determining the match outcome.

The context of this match, being a knockout stage in the World Cup, adds extra pressure on both teams. Argentina will look to leverage their attacking strengths, while Cape Verde will need to tighten their defense to avoid being overwhelmed.

Argentina — Cape Verde Islands Prediction

Exact Score: 3 – 2
1st Half: 2 – 1
Goals (Total): 3 – 2
Corners: 5 – 3
Fouls: 12 – 10
Yellow Cards: 3 – 2
Shots on target: 8 – 4
Offsides: 3 – 2
Possession: 60% – 40%

Tactically, Argentina is expected to dominate possession and utilize their attacking depth to create multiple scoring opportunities. They may employ a high press to disrupt Cape Verde's build-up play, forcing turnovers in dangerous areas. Cape Verde, on the other hand, will likely adopt a more defensive posture, looking to counter-attack when possible, but they will need to be wary of Argentina's pace and creativity in the final third.

3 Reasons Why Argentina Will Win

Strong Offensive Form: Argentina's recent scoring rate of 2.67 goals per game indicates a potent attack capable of breaking down defenses.
Defensive Solidity: With only 0.33 goals conceded per game, Argentina's defense has proven to be resilient, which is crucial in knockout matches.
Statistical Superiority: The significant difference in xG and goals scored between the two teams suggests that Argentina is likely to create more scoring opportunities.