World Cup 2026: Messi ready for extra time against Cape Verde, says Argentina boss Scaloni

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has warned against underestimating Cape Verde ahead of their Round of 16 clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while also confirming that captain Lionel Messi is prepared for the demands of extra time if needed.

Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Scaloni insisted Argentina were approaching the encounter with full seriousness despite being favourites to progress.

“We’ll see what happens, there’s no point in answering now, but I imagine he’ll be fine if it goes on. We’re approaching the game in the best way possible and with the seriousness the opponent deserves, and then we’ll see what happens.”

The Argentine coach was responding to questions about Messi’s physical readiness should the knockout tie extend beyond 90 minutes.

Scaloni praises Cape Verde’s organisation

Scaloni also reserved strong praise for Cape Verde, whose performances at the tournament have attracted attention after an impressive campaign.

The African side progressed to the knockout stage unbeaten and now stand one match away from a historic quarter-final appearance.

“They are a team that has not lost and deserved to win some matches. Although they struggled a bit against Spain and Uruguay, they launch counter-attacks very well. They are a good team. We have watched them and analyzed them as a potential opponent, so they do not surprise us, and their presence is not a coincidence.”

The Argentina manager also provided an update on defender Cristian Romero ahead of the crucial encounter.

“At the beginning, he is fine, but the time factor cannot be guaranteed. If players participate in matches, it is because they are available, and if he trains well today, he will be there.”

Messi still central to Argentina’s attack

Scaloni defended his team’s attacking play and dismissed suggestions that Argentina rely too heavily on Messi for goals.

“Messi scored the goals, but we had opportunities through other players. The fact that one of the strikers succeeded in scoring, even though it was him, does not negate the fact that he is a striker in the team. We had many attacking opportunities regardless of making a particular opposing goalkeeper the star of the match.”

The Argentine boss also named several countries he believes are emerging as strong contenders for the World Cup crown.

“The teams that are in their best form are the ones that are currently imposing themselves; I watched Mexico, who played a great match, and there are also France, Brazil, Colombia, and Spain, and I don’t want to forget anyone like Portugal and England, but what France has done should be taken into account.”

Argentina unfazed by Miami heat

Scaloni also addressed concerns over the weather conditions expected for the match in Miami, insisting his side would not alter their style because of the heat.

“I don’t know if it changes everything. Playing at 6 pm in Miami could have been compensated for by playing at night. I’m not complaining because the conditions apply to both sides, and we played the Copa America final at night. The performance won’t be the same and the times are the same, but we won’t change anything because of the heat.”

The coach concluded by highlighting the emotional connection between the Argentine players and their supporters as the team chase another World Cup triumph.

“Argentine players are primarily fans, and the team constantly demonstrates its character and strength. They have to live and enjoy themselves, and every time they look at the fans, it should be a source of motivation and joy for them.”

“Everyone feels the desire to play and meet the expectations of the fans on the pitch. Every player has been dreaming of this moment since he was a little boy.”