Argentina handed favorable path to World Cup final
With first place in their group secured, Argentina's potential route to the World Cup semifinals appears clear of major threats following Friday's results.
Lionel Messi et les Argentins ont vu leur tableau se dégager après l'élimination de l'Uruguay. (U. Hufnagel/Witters/Presse Sports)
Argentina has already secured top spot in their group, and Friday's results have significantly cleared the path for the reigning world champions in the knockout stages. Following Spain's 1-0 victory over Uruguay, the Albiceleste have avoided a high-stakes South American clash in the round of 32.
Lionel Messi and his teammates are now set to face Cape Verde, currently 64th in the FIFA rankings. The newcomers, while unbeaten in the group stage with three draws, lack the experience of high-pressure knockout football, handing Argentina a distinct advantage.
Should they advance, Argentina's likely opponents in the round of 16 and quarterfinals include Australia, Iran, Switzerland, Colombia, Croatia, or Algeria. Only in the semifinals would they potentially face top-tier opposition such as Brazil or England, assuming those sides navigate their own paths successfully.
This favorable draw sets the stage for a potential second consecutive final appearance for Lionel Scaloni's men. If current form holds, a repeat of the last World Cup final against France remains a distinct possibility.