Who does Argentina play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 32?

Group J winners and defending champions Argentina are preparing for a 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 32 showdown against Group H runners-up, Cape Verde, as La Albiceleste looks to continue their title defense and Cape Verde aims for another historic upset.

Argentina stormed into the knockout round after an impressive start to their World Cup campaign, opening with a commanding 3-0 win over Algeria and following up with a 2-0 victory against Austria. With qualification assured, head coach Lionel Scaloni has made the strategic decision to rest star forward Lionel Messi in the final group-stage match against Jordan.

Cape Verde’s remarkable Cinderella story continues as they make history by becoming the smallest nation by population to ever reach the knockout stage of a men’s World Cup. Their group stage campaign was defined by grit and resilience: they held European powerhouse Spain to a 0-0 draw, produced a thrilling 2-2 battle with Uruguay, and capped off the group with a goalless draw against Saudi Arabia.

Now, Cape Verde faces the nation’s greatest footballing challenge yet: a round of 32 clash against Argentina in Miami Gardens, Florida, on July 3.

Who does Argentina play in the round of 32?

Argentina will face Cape Verde in the round of 32 on Friday, July 3, at Miami Stadium in Miami, Florida. The match is scheduled to start at 6 p.m. ET.

• Date: Friday, July 3
• Time: 6 p.m. ET
• TV: FOX
• Stream: FOX One
• Location: Miami Stadium (Hard Rock Stadium) in Miami, Florida