Inter captain Lautaro Martínez is set to spearhead Argentina’s attack alongside Lionel Messi as the defending champions begin their FIFA World Cup knockout campaign against Cape Verde.
The last-32 tie begins at the Inter Miami stadium on Thursday evening at 23:00 UK time (midnight CEST Friday). Coach Lionel Scaloni has elected to start the Serie A top scorer ahead of Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez, while Como midfielder Nico Paz will begin the evening among the substitutes after earning a start during squad rotation in the final group game.
According to TyC Sports, Scaloni favours Martínez’s physical presence and proven finishing ability for this crucial opener. The Inter striker has started all three matches in the tournament so far, converting from the penalty spot during the 3-1 victory over Jordan. He brings formidable domestic form to the national side, having struck 17 goals in 30 Serie A appearances last season to help Inter secure the Scudetto and finish as the division’s leading marksman. His international record stands at 38 goals in 80 senior appearances, alongside 12 assists.
Scaloni faced a genuine selection dilemma in attack following the group stage. While Álvarez offers relentless pressing and intelligent movement, Martínez provides a physical focal point and a superior goal record at both domestic and international level. The coach has ultimately sided with the Inter captain’s greater presence and clinical edge for this decisive knockout encounter.
Messi will also start at his home club ground, where he represents Inter Miami, aiming to maintain the scoring form that has already proven instrumental in the group stage. Argentina progressed with a perfect record, sweeping aside Algeria, Austria and Jordan to top their section without dropping points.
The defensive unit is expected to feature E Martínez in goal behind a back four of Molina, Romero, Lisandro Martínez and Medina. In midfield, De Paul, Mac Allister and Fernández are likely to provide the platform for Messi and Martínez to combine in the final third, with Almada offering creativity from a wider position.
Victory against Cape Verde would extend Argentina’s stay in the competition and set up a Round of 16 meeting with either Australia or Egypt. The knockout phase offers no second chances, and Scaloni’s lineup selection reflects his intent to field his most reliable attacking partnership from the opening whistle. Argentina remain among the tournament favourites as they seek to defend the trophy they won in Qatar.
Probable Argentina Starting XI
E Martínez; Molina, Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Medina; De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernández; Almada; Messi, Lautaro Martínez.