Argentina vs. Cape Verde: Your Ultimate Guide to Betting Tips, Predictions, Odds, and Free Bets for the World Cup Round of 32!

THE round of 32’s David v Goliath story is almost upon us with Cape Verde dreaming of a historic victory over Argentina in Miami.

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Argentina vs Cape Verde preview

These two teams are separated by 62 places in the world rankings but even that doesn’t do justice to the one-sided nature of this fixture.

Argentina are three-time world champions and current holders of the trophy, led by arguably the greatest player of all time who has warmed up for this game with six goals in two and a bit group games.

In contrast, Cape Verde’s qualification for the World Cup was an historic achievement in itself and their key player is a 40-year-old goalkeeper without a club.

The odds are stacked against the Blue Sharks but they will take heart from their efforts in the group stage.

The previously referenced Vozinha starred in a 0-0 with Spain before they showed admirable character to come behind against Uruguay to earn a 2-2 draw.

Bubista’s side then drew 0-0 with Saudi Arabia to finish second in the group — they had more than enough chances in Houston to record their first ever World Cup win but weren’t clinical enough on the night.

Cape Verde will try to replicate the formula that frustrated Spain but they may also need a substantial dose of luck if they are to register one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history.

Lionel Scaloni’s primary duty is too ward off complacency.

The Albiceleste have not lost a knockout game at a major tournament in the last seven years, an impressive streak that covers two Copa Americas and the 2022 World Cup.

Argentina were one of just three teams to win all three group games, alongside Mexico and France, and the motivational aura of their legendary captain is impossible to quantify.

At 39 years old, Messi leads the Golden Boot race alongside Kylian Mbappe (six goals each), with Erling Haaland and Harry Kane (five each) in hot pursuit.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner offers nothing out of possession but remains a supreme match-winner in the final third.

Messi would never admit it but he will see this fixture as a excellent opportunity to extend his record as the top goalscorer in World Cup history.

Argentina vs Cape Verde odds

• Argentina to win 1/6 Betfred
• Draw 13/2 with Sky Bet
• Cape Verde to win 24/1 with Betfair

Odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.

Tip: Argentina to win both halves

The reaction to Cape Verde’s 0-0 draw with Spain served as a reminder that football fans love an underdog but we urge punters to listen to their head rather than their heart.

Scaloni has forged a formidable tournament team, built around a once-in-a-lifetime talent, and the image of them ending Cape Verde’s dream in a brutal, unsentimental fashion is easy to envisage.

Argentina scored in both halves in all three of their group games.

• Argentina to win both halves 13/10 with BOYLE Sports

Tip 2: Messi to have 2+ shots on target & to be fouled 2+ times

Argentina’s No10 averages a shot on target every 22.2 minutes at this World Cup.

And he’s been fouled once every 33.3 minutes.

If Cape Verde are to have any chance of a miracle they will have to snuff out Messi and that usually entails some cynical fouls.

The problem is that Messi has been harassed numerous times throughout his long career and it usually ends with him celebrating a goal (or two, three…).

• Messi to have 2+ shots on target & to be fouled 2+ times 11/10 with Paddy Power

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