Argentina have scored 8 goals and conceded just 1 across their three matches, showing a balanced and solid overall performance at both ends of the pitch. The team averages more than 65% possession, and its three scoring systems — positional penetration, wide combinations, and set-piece attacks — are operating with maturity. Led by Messi and Lautaro, the forward line has maintained stable finishing efficiency, while the midfield pairing of Enzo and Mac Allister also offers a threat by arriving late in the box. In the final group match against Jordan, the coach made heavy rotations to the starting XI, and Messi only came off the bench to score a free-kick goal. With the core group well rested, they will look to apply sustained pressure in the first round of the knockout stage and create a series of consecutive threats, with the ability to score multiple goals in a single match.
Cape Verde advanced from the group stage unbeaten with three draws in three matches, and they are not purely a defensive side. In the match against Uruguay, they scored twice, with set pieces and quick counterattacks serving as reliable scoring methods. Against Argentina, who will push forward and leave space behind them, they are fully capable of finding the net. However, their five-man back line relies heavily on the individual performance of goalkeeper Vozinha, and under sustained high pressure their physical condition drops noticeably after the 65th minute. They conceded in that period against Uruguay as well, making it difficult for them to contain Argentina’s multi-pronged attack for the full 90 minutes.