Bubista: We Will Play With Courage Against Messi’s Argentina

Cape Verde head coach Bubista has expressed confidence that his side will play with courage and character when they face Lionel Messi-led Argentina in their FIFA World Cup Round of 32 fixture at Miami Stadium on Friday.

Cape Verde arrive unbeaten from their Group H campaign, having drawn 0-0 with Spain, 2-2 with Uruguay, and 0-0 with Saudi Arabia to secure their place in the knockout stage.

Argentina, meanwhile, dominated Group J with victories over Algeria (3-0), Austria (2-0), and Jordan (3-1).

Speaking ahead of the match, Bubista described the encounter as a historic opportunity for his team and nation.

‘We have a strong connection with Argentina. The chance to play against them is a reward for these players, this team and our people. We’re ecstatic. Reaching the knockout phase means making history yet again,’ he said.

On facing Messi, who has already scored six goals in the tournament, Bubista added: ‘For us, it’s a huge privilege to face the player many consider the greatest of all time. Will it be the No. 10 against our 10 islands? Of course. But we’ll continue to play with character, discipline and our own identity.’

Defender Diney Borges echoed the sentiment, calling the match a childhood dream: ;It’s not every day you get to play Messi. We all grew up watching him play. We have this opportunity and, God willing, we could knock out Argentina, the world champions.’

Goalkeeper Vozinha emphasized the national pride behind the team’s journey: ‘We take the field with the opportunity to continue writing one of the most beautiful chapters in the history of our sport and our country. More than just eleven players, an entire nation will be stepping onto the pitch.’

Cape Verde’s participation is already historic, as they are the second-smallest country by land area and the third-least-populated to compete at the World Cup.

Friday’s clash against Argentina will determine who advances to the Round of 16.