Former England international Paul Masefield has backed reigning champions Argentina to progress comfortably past tournament debutants Cape Verde in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026, while crediting the African side for one of the competition's most remarkable stories. The match pits Lionel Messi's world champions against a Cape Verde side that has earned widespread admiration for its disciplined, hard-to-break-down displays throughout the group stage.

Masefield's Match Prediction

Speaking on Zee5, Masefield was unequivocal about where the balance of power lies heading into the knockout tie. 'Argentina are the favourites, no question about that. They will stick to their shape, they will do what they need to do, and they will go about the game in a positive way. Cape Verde have to be respected, especially with players like Vozinha in goal and Kevin Pina shielding the defence, but for me this is Argentina in cruise control, winning this one comfortably,' he said.

Despite his confident prediction of an Argentine win, Masefield was equally emphatic in his praise for Cape Verde's campaign, describing it as one of the defining narratives of the tournament.

Cape Verde's Historic Run

Masefield described the Cape Verde story as nothing short of extraordinary for a nation making its World Cup debut. 'What has really stood out for me with this Cape Verde side is their heart, passion and desire. They've been incredibly difficult to break down, and the results they've produced have been nothing short of phenomenal. It's been brilliant to see one of the minnows of world football reach this stage, and now they get the opportunity to face the reigning champions. It's an unbelievable story,' he added.

The Cape Verdean defensive unit, marshalled by goalkeeper Vozinha and midfielder Kevin Pina, has been central to their resilience throughout the group phase — a run that has made them one of the tournament's biggest talking points.

The Messi vs Ronaldo Debate

Masefield also weighed in on football's most enduring argument — the rivalry between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. He attributed the longevity of the debate to the fundamentally different nature of their respective greatness.

'The biggest difference between Messi and Ronaldo is mentality. If you look at Ronaldo, he's worked incredibly hard to become uniquely physically fit, which is why his longevity has been so impressive. He's evolved throughout his career because he's constantly worked on his game. Lionel Messi, on the other hand, is just raw, natural talent that has been there from day one,' Masefield said.

He added: 'They're both individually brilliant and absolute superstars, but for different reasons, and that's why the debate over who is the greatest continues. When you talk about technique, quality and individual brilliance, it's Messi. But when you talk about the all-round game, it's Ronaldo. Both players have been nothing short of unbelievable for the game of football.'

Tournament Favourites and Dark Horses

Looking beyond the Round of 32, Masefield identified France and Argentina as the two clear frontrunners for the title, while tipping Mexico and the USA as potential dark horses capable of causing upsets in the knockout rounds.

'For me, France are the favourites to win the FIFA World Cup 2026. There's no question about that given the quality and talent they have throughout the squad. Argentina are right alongside them because of the strength they possess across the pitch and the incredible depth on their bench, which will become increasingly important as injuries and suspensions begin to affect teams in the knockout rounds. Right now, Argentina are simply brushing aside everything in their path,' he said.

On the host nations, Masefield noted that Mexico had quietly impressed, while USA — under coach Mauricio Pochettino — could leverage home support into a deep run. 'Playing at home with the backing of their supporters gives them a huge advantage, and if Pochettino can keep that momentum going, they could surprise a lot of people,' he said. The knockout rounds are expected to intensify as fatigue and squad depth become decisive factors.