Argentina football legends discuss World Cup 2026 expansion and upcoming knockout match

Former World Cup hero Mario Kempes said the 2026 tournament feels "different" because of the larger number of teams and the worldwide spread of Argentine players in top European leagues. He praised Lionel Messi’s six goals so far and recalled the honor of having a stadium in Córdoba bear his own name.

Coach Lionel Scaloni, on the eve of his 100th match in charge, warned that the round‑of‑16 clash with Cape Verde will "put things difficult" for Argentina. He highlighted Messi’s defensive contribution, the boost from Argentine supporters in the United States, and offered condolences for a recent car accident that killed three youth players in Santa Fe.