Scaloni Relieved After Argentina Survive Cape Verde Scare

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni admitted he was relieved after his side survived a major scare against World Cup debutants Cape Verde, insisting he had always expected a difficult contest despite many believing the defending champions had been handed an easy draw.
Argentina needed extra time to edge Cape Verde 3-2 in a dramatic Round of 32 clash on Friday, underlining just how unforgiving the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup can be.
Speaking to reporters after the match, Scaloni said the performance answered those who had dismissed Cape Verde before kick-off.
"This is the answer to those who said we had an easy opponent in the draw. Of course we deserved to win and reach the next round, but it was an extremely difficult match."
Although Argentina entered the game as overwhelming favourites on paper, Cape Verde twice fought back to level the score and pushed the world champions into extra time with a fearless display.
Scaloni also highlighted the physical toll of the demanding 120-minute encounter.
"The players were completely exhausted after the match. We still have areas where we can improve, but the team showed tremendous resilience today. Extra time meant we had to play many more minutes, and some players were suffering from cramps. But when they play with their hearts, they can overcome any situation. Today they proved their character and quality."
Cape Verde nearly forced an even greater shock when left-back Sidney Lopes Cabral scored a stunning curling goal late in extra time, raising fears that the match could yet swing again.
Reflecting on those tense moments, Scaloni said:
"I just wanted the match to end. You all saw the incredible goal they scored. I always stay alert, but inside I was calmer than I may have looked. Everyone thought it would be an easy victory, but we knew it wouldn't be."
Asked whether being favourites had placed additional pressure on his team, the Argentina coach dismissed the suggestion.
"Not at all. The best thing about this team is that they never give up—they just keep going. The players kept attacking and gave everything they had. The pitch conditions were also a bit unusual; the ball wasn't moving the way we are used to, which wasn't ideal for our style of play. But we adapted."
Scaloni ended with a characteristically emotional reflection on what it means to represent Argentina.
"What does it mean to be Argentine? It means suffering. Cape Verde gave 200 percent today, and in football that's what closes the gap. Our supporters understand better than anyone that this is Argentina, and nothing ever comes easily for us. This shirt carries a special tradition. We will move forward, and this difficult test has made us even stronger."

MMR