2026 World Cup : We will play Argentina with the right attitude – Cape Verde coach

Cape Verde national football team coach Bubista said his team will approach their 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout game against defending champions Argentina with the right attitude.

Cape Verde qualified for the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in their debut appearance after playing a goalless draw against Saudi Arabia on Friday, becoming the smallest nation to ever reach the World Cup knockouts.

The West African team finished second in Group H with three points, coming out undefeated in a group that had Spain and Uruguay. The team has been drawn against holders Spain in the round of 32.

Speaking after his team’s 0-0 draw against Saudi Arabia, Coach Bubister admitted that what they have achieved is a bit shocking.

“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,” he added.

For Bubister and his men, playing Lionel Messi-led Argentina is an honour, but he said his team will approach the game with the right attitude and maintain their personality.

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

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

NAN reports that Cape Verde will play defending champions Argentina in the round of 32 on Friday, July 3, at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. (Reuters/NAN

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