Argentina targets second World Cup title as Lautaro Martinez praised before Cape Verde round‑of‑16

Argentina completed the group stage of the 2026 World Cup with a perfect record and, according to betting analysts, is a strong contender for a second championship. Odds for the Albiceleste’s title run have fallen to 5.00, with a favourable knockout path that begins against Cape Verde.

Inter striker Lautaro Martinez scored his first World Cup goal against Jordan and responded to criticism by emphasizing the team’s victory over personal statistics. He lauded Lionel Messi’s influence and warned that Cape Verde will treat the match as “the game of their lives.”

Former Argentine star Sergio Aguero weighed in on the team’s attacking options, stating that Martinez should start in every match as the ideal centre‑forward for Messi, while Julian Alvarez is better suited to a wider role. His endorsement adds to Martinez’s growing profile ahead of the upcoming round‑of‑16.