Messi meeting the ‘game of our lives’, says Cape Verde coach

Cape Verde head coach Bubista described the upcoming match against Argentina and Lionel Messi as the "match of our lives," emphasizing that his team will not fear the defending World Cup champions during their last 32 encounter on Friday. The African archipelago, with a population of just over 500,000, has reached the knockout stages in their first-ever World Cup after drawing with Spain, Uruguay, and Cape Verde in the group phase.

Bubista expressed confidence in his team's accomplishment, stating in a pre-match press conference, "We are calm because we earned our place here on merit and there is nothing to fear or worry too much about. We know the importance of the match ahead. It is the match of our lives, but we are going to enjoy it and give our best."

Argentina, currently among the favorites to retain their title and secure a fourth World Cup crown, boasts Messi, who scored six goals in three dominating group stage matches. However, Bubista articulated that his players will not be intimidated by facing the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner and the top-ranked team in the world. He stressed, "There is no other thought in our minds than trying to advance past this round."