Atlanta United 2 Overview

Lionel Messi laughed off the physical treatment he received from Cape Verde after Argentina edged into the World Cup last 16. The Albiceleste captain joked that his opponents "kick the crap" out of him before asking for shirts and selfies, while also admitting his side fell below their usual standards.

While Argentina enters the match as heavy favorites with an unblemished group stage run, tournament debutants Cabo Verde are counting on their defensive resilience, having already frustrated the likes of Spain and Uruguay.

Cristian Romero scored an extra-time winner, Lionel Messi grabbed a goal, but Argentina were given a real scare by Cape Verde in an uncomfortable 3-2 win to advance to the World Cup Round of 16. Argentina surrendered the lead twice, and needed extra time to finally gain daylight from a Cape Verde side that, in truth, deserved so much more.

Our soccer expert offers his Argentina vs Cabo Verde predictions, ahead of Friday’s World Cup clash, at 6:00pm ET (7/3).