)
Lionel Messi admitted that Argentina faced significant challenges against Cape Verde, despite having prepared for a tough encounter.
"We knew it would be a very difficult match. This team didn't lose to Spain or Uruguay. We did the hardest part, which was scoring the first goal, and we thought that would bring us calm, but the exact opposite happened," Messi stated in his post-match comments.
The Argentina captain, who finished the match with a goal and an assist, didn't shy away from praising their opponents. Cape Verde remained undefeated in regular time throughout the World Cup, with three of their four matches coming against former or current world champions.
"We were losing the ball, we weren't pressing well, and they attacked with their strengths. These are knockout stages, and no one gives you anything for free. This World Cup is very complex; all matches will be very difficult, and the exhaustion is immense, whether you play well or poorly. The important thing is to rest and try to learn from today's game. We need to correct the mistakes, which were also numerous today," Messi continued.
The player, who was named FIFA's Man of the Match, also commended Cape Verde's ball distribution.
"We weren't pressing well. When we tried to pressure their defensive midfielder, the center-backs spread too wide, and we were slightly uncoordinated because they always had an extra man. They held possession and made us run," he said.
Argentina will face Egypt for a spot in the quarter-finals, and Messi has already turned his attention to the Albiceleste's next steps, highlighting a crucial weapon the team utilized against Cape Verde.
"This national team will fight until the end. We saw how important set pieces are, and in such matches, they are key, as we have several good headers of the ball. We capitalized on that, and it will be important to be strong in this aspect," Messi concluded.
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)
&format=webp)
&format=webp)
&format=webp)
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)