World Cup 2026: Cape Verde president claims “100% chance” of eliminating Argentina

Cape Verde President José Maria Neves has made a bold and headline-grabbing statement ahead of his country’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash against defending champions Argentina, insisting that his side have a “100% chance” of pulling off a shock victory.

Neves expressed full confidence in Cape Verde’s ability to eliminate Argentina, predicting a 1-0 win in what would already be one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history.

Historic World Cup Debut for Cape Verde

Cape Verde are enjoying a dream campaign in their first-ever World Cup appearance, defying expectations by reaching the knockout stages of the tournament.

Their qualification was secured through a series of impressive results, including draws against Spain and Uruguay, followed by a crucial draw against Saudi Arabia. Uruguay’s defeat to Spain ultimately ensured Cape Verde’s progression to the Round of 32.

The achievement has been widely celebrated as one of the most remarkable debut performances by any nation at the tournament.

Argentina Await After Perfect Group Stage

Standing in their way are reigning world champions Argentina, who arrived in the knockout stage with a perfect record in the group phase.

Lionel Messi has been in sensational form, scoring six of Argentina’s eight goals across victories against Austria, Algeria, and Jordan, as the South American giants established themselves as one of the favourites for the title once again.

Despite Argentina’s dominance, Cape Verde head into the match believing they have nothing to fear.

President Neves: “We Have a 100% Chance”

Speaking in an interview with BBC, President Neves insisted that his country is ready to make history once again.

“I believe Cape Verde is capable of beating Argentina with a clean sheet… We always play to win. When expectations are low around a team, and that team has an overwhelming desire to win, then the impossible becomes possible,” he said.

Neves doubled down on his confidence, adding: “A small country like Cape Verde must always strive to do that; to constantly surprise the world. I see that we have a 100% chance of beating Argentina.”

“We Came to Write Our Destiny”

The Cape Verde leader concluded his remarks by framing the match as a defining moment in the nation’s football history.

“We went to this World Cup to write our destiny with our own hands, and our destiny is to face the champions. Therefore, we will face Argentina and Messi with the same determination, the same will, and a real desire to win and advance to the next round,” he stated.

As Cape Verde prepare for the biggest match in their football history, the world now watches to see whether belief alone can inspire another shock on football’s grandest stage.