As reigning champions, Argentina are set to face tournament debutants Cape Verde in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Former England international Paul Masefield believes Lionel Messi and his team have the quality and experience to comfortably progress. Despite this, Masefield acknowledges Cape Verde’s disciplined defense and impressive run to the knockout stages.
Argentina enters the match as clear favorites, with Masefield predicting a comfortable victory for them. He highlights Cape Verde’s resilience and success as one of the standout stories of the World Cup. Masefield praises Cape Verde’s heart, passion, and defensive strength, emphasizing the remarkable journey of the underdog team.
Reflecting on the ongoing debate between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, Masefield points out their distinct qualities. He notes Ronaldo’s physical fitness and continuous evolution throughout his career, contrasting it with Messi’s natural talent. Masefield appreciates both players’ brilliance but highlights their differences, contributing to the perpetual discussion on football’s greatest player.
Looking ahead, Masefield considers France and Argentina as the teams to beat in the tournament. He also mentions Mexico and the USA as potential dark horses, with Mexico quietly impressing as hosts and the USA benefiting from home support. Despite this, Masefield reiterates that France and Argentina stand out as the top contenders in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
