Argentina will take on Cabo Verde in the Round of 32 on July 3 (local time), with a place in the Round of 16 on the line as Lionel Scaloni's men continue their title defence.
Former Argentina forward Carlos Tevez has paid glowing tribute to Lionel Messi, describing the Argentina captain as "untouchable" and admitting that even his former teammates continue to be amazed by the football legend's ability to keep adding new chapters to his extraordinary career.
With Argentina preparing to begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout campaign, Tevez said Messi's brilliance has transcended national borders, insisting that the entire football world is captivated by the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.
Also Read
Tevez says Messi continues to amaze everyone
"We, especially my fellow players, are always amazed by [Messi]," Carlos Tevez told ESPN. "He always seems to have one more story to tell. And even though he's come so far, he always gives us a little more."
Tevez said Messi's relentless ability to produce magical moments, despite everything he has already accomplished, is what separates him from the rest.
'Maradona and Messi are untouchable'
The former Manchester United, Manchester City and Juventus striker also reflected on Argentina's rich footballing history, saying the country has been fortunate to witness two once-in-a-generation icons in Diego Maradona and Messi.
"But look, we Argentines are enjoying it, just like everyone else, because it's not just Argentines who are going crazy over Leo; the whole world is going crazy over him. We Argentines feel lucky to have had Maradona first and then Leo Messi. Just as Pele and many other superstars are for you or for Brazil, for us, Maradona and Messi are untouchable," he added.
Messi eyes another World Cup milestone
Argentina will take on Cabo Verde in the Round of 32 on July 3 (local time), with a place in the Round of 16 on the line as Lionel Scaloni's men continue their title defence.
Messi has once again been the driving force behind Argentina's campaign, combining leadership, experience and attacking quality to guide the reigning world champions into the knockout stages.
The 39-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable tournament so far and is currently joint-top of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Golden Boot standings with six goals, level with France captain Kylian Mbappe.
Victory over Cabo Verde would send Argentina into the Round of 16 and keep alive their hopes of successfully defending the FIFA World Cup title they won in Qatar in 2022.
Published: 03 Jul 2026, 10:27 pm IST
Related Topics
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Disclaimer: Kindly avoid objectionable, derogatory, unlawful and lewd comments, while responding to reports. Such comments are punishable under cyber laws. Please keep away from personal attacks. The opinions expressed here are the personal opinions of readers and not that of Mathrubhumi.