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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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

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“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.

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“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.

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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.

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

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

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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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