Argentina’s World Cup scare in opposition to Cape Verde means Lionel Scaloni’s aspect won’t underestimate Egypt of their last-16 encounter, says midfielder Leandro Paredes.
Atlanta Stadium is the venue for the battle between Argentina and Egypt to succeed in the World Cup quarter-finals, however Albiceleste had a troublesome time getting there.
Lionel Messi’s aim within the twenty ninth minute gave Argentina the lead, however Cape Verde, enjoying for the primary time within the match, stunned the defending champions with Deroy Duarte’s counterattack simply earlier than the beginning time.
Argentina took the lead in further time when Lisandro Martínez slotted previous Bosinha, however Sidney Cabral’s gorgeous aim equalized the rating once more.
Scaloni’s aspect lastly acquired over the road when Dinny Borges discovered his personal web to assist Argentina declare their tenth World Cup victory in further time.
That is the primary time Argentina and Egypt have confronted one another on the World Cup, with Hossam Hassan’s aspect defeating Australia within the ultimate spherical, and Paredes admitted his aspect have been cautious of their opponents going into the sport.
“The lesson is that there aren’t any straightforward video games just like the one in opposition to Egypt,” Paredes stated.
“What did the coach say to us after we scored the aim late in opposition to Cape Verde? Scaloni did not say, ‘I am not going to play anymore,’ however he instructed us to do our greatest, press and hold working.
“It’s about leaving every thing till the tip.”
#Main Choice Final observe! Now let’s transfer on to the following step #AllTogether pic.twitter.com/gIQ2U52qpU
— Argentina Nationwide Staff (@Argentina) July 6, 2026
Argentina has received every of its previous eight World Cup matches in opposition to African nations, together with two in 2026 (3-0 in opposition to Algeria and 3-2 in opposition to Cape Verde).
Within the historical past of the match, no crew has ever received three video games in opposition to African opponents in a single match.
The defending champions have additionally received every of their 16 matches within the final 5 rounds of the World Cup, making Italy the one title holders to be eradicated at this stage, having misplaced 2-0 to France in 1986.
Paredes, who performed 5 video games for Argentina throughout their title-winning marketing campaign 4 years in the past, has began only one recreation for Argentina this time round, however stated he can be prepared if Scaloni known as him.
“Do I take into account myself a starter? I at all times look inside myself. The coach will make the choice and by the eleventh hour he’ll determine,” Paredes added.
“We’ve to present our all and be motivated. We at all times need to give the very best model. You’ll be able to’t at all times do it, you suffered, and also you have been capable of win.”
“It is regular for us to be drained and the grass affected us. We’re in good condition football-wise and mentally. There aren’t any straightforward video games like in opposition to Cape Verde.”
“Profitable was crucial factor and we have been capable of accomplish that.”
If Argentina advances, they may face both Colombia or Switzerland within the final eight, adopted by England or Norway within the semi-finals.
