Defending champions Argentina may have one of the most favourable knockout routes at the FIFA World Cup 2026, but head coach Lionel Scaloni has firmly rejected suggestions that FIFA has given his side an easier path to the latter stages of the tournament.
Argentina will begin their knockout campaign against tournament debutants Cape Verde in the Round of 32. If they progress, the reigning world champions are likely to face either Australia or Egypt in the Round of 16, while a quarter-final clash could come against Switzerland, Colombia or Ghana.
On paper, Lionel Messi’s side will enter each of those matches as overwhelming favourites, making them one of the strongest contenders to reach at least the semi-finals.
Scaloni Rejects FIFA Favouritism Claims
Argentina’s seemingly favourable route has sparked debate on social media, with some users alleging that FIFA deliberately structured the knockout bracket to help the defending champions retain their title.
Speaking ahead of Argentina’s Round of 32 encounter, Scaloni dismissed those claims outright and urged his players to stay focused on football rather than online speculation.
“I don’t read social media, but today every opinion can become popular no matter its content. We must ignore such unrealistic opinions and focus on what’s important and the pitch,” Scaloni was quoted as saying by Saudi Arabia-based outlet Ariyadhiah.
Argentina Warned Against Underestimating Cape Verde
Despite Argentina’s status as favourites, Scaloni insisted his team will not take Cape Verde lightly.
The African nation has emerged as one of the biggest surprise packages of the expanded 48-team World Cup, becoming the smallest country ever to qualify for the knockout stages of the tournament.
“This is a team that hasn’t lost. They aren’t here by accident. We have to respect them, and that is what we will do,” Scaloni said.
Cape Verde reached the Round of 32 after an impressive unbeaten group-stage campaign. They held Spain to a draw before finishing ahead of Uruguay and Saudi Arabia in Group H, earning one of the most remarkable qualification stories of the tournament.
David vs Goliath Clash Awaits
Friday’s meeting in Miami promises to be a classic David-versus-Goliath encounter.
Cape Verde, the smallest nation ever to reach the World Cup knockout rounds, will attempt to pull off one of the greatest upsets in football history by eliminating the defending champions.
Argentina, meanwhile, have cruised through the group stage, with captain Lionel Messi scoring six goals to lead the attack. The two-time World Cup winners are widely expected to overcome Cape Verde and move another step closer to winning back-to-back FIFA World Cup titles.
However, Scaloni’s comments suggest Argentina are treating the match with complete seriousness, recognising that Cape Verde have earned their place among the final 32 through disciplined and resilient performances rather than luck.
With a potential path to the semi-finals appearing less challenging than some of the other title contenders, Argentina know the opportunity is there. But first, they must overcome a fearless Cape Verde side determined to script the biggest shock of the FIFA World Cup 2026.