Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has issued a stern warning to his team ahead of their World Cup round of 32 clash with Cape Verde, emphasizing the island nation's quality despite their small population. Scaloni praised Cape Verde as 'a good team' and 'tough opponent' that pushed Spain and Uruguay during group play.

Cape Verde's achievement is remarkable - with just 525,000 inhabitants, they became the smallest country by population to reach the men's World Cup knockout stage. They finished second in Group H behind Spain but ahead of Saudi Arabia and two-time champions Uruguay. This marks the furthest any nation with under one million people has advanced in the tournament.

Argentina secured their spot atop Group J with nine points, defeating Algeria, Austria and Jordan while remaining undefeated. Scaloni's squad showed they can win without Lionel Messi starting, though the captain still contributed off the bench. Forward Lautaro Martínez said the team achieved their first goal of advancement and will now push for more.

The match takes place July 3 in Miami, Florida, with Argentina training in Kansas City beforehand. Guiliano Simeone echoed Scaloni's caution, stating any opponent in the knockout stage presents challenges. Argentina's experience may prove decisive against the tournament's biggest underdog story.