Scolani: No Easy Opponent in World Cup

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni praised Cape Verde’s resilience but insisted his side were worthy winners after a thrilling 3-2 extra-time victory sent them into the World Cup last 16.

​Speaking after the match, Scaloni paid tribute to the African side’s impressive display in what proved to be a grueling encounter for the South Americans.

​”There is no easy opponent in the World Cup, and I congratulate Cape Verde for the high level they displayed,” he said.

​Despite the victory, the Argentine boss admitted there were defensive issues to address in the dressing room, though he preferred to focus on his team’s fighting spirit.

​”I will talk to the players about the negative aspects, but what I am most proud of is that the team never gave up and kept fighting until the end,” Scaloni added.

​”We conceded goals at crucial moments, but we never stopped looking for the win. The players’ reaction was fantastic during the toughest periods of the match.”

​Scaloni highlighted his side’s relentless attacking intent, stating they always aim for the opponent’s goal and played “with heart above all else” to secure their spot in the next round.

​He also took time to applaud Cape Verde’s second goal, admitting his defence was beaten by a moment of individual brilliance.

​”We knew their player preferred to cut inside and shoot, yet he scored a wonderful goal that can only be praised,” he noted.

​The Argentine manager was quick to dismiss any suggestions that his side had underestimated their opponents heading into the knockout tie.

​”Everyone thought the match would be easy for us, but we knew it would be a complicated encounter, and that’s exactly what happened.

​”Even when you win by a large margin, there are aspects that need correction. We can discuss whether we played well or poorly, but this team is not afraid to control the game.”