Who would Argentina play in round of 16? Potential World Cup opponents
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Lionel Messi and Argentina are into the knockout rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they will meet the tournament darlings, Cape Verde. The smallest country by population to make the knockout rounds in World Cup history, Cape Verde will have its hands full against the 2022 champions.
The Argentinians clinched Group J before the final group stage match, allowing the squad a little bit of rest before the win-or-go-home games kick off.
Argentina might be heavily favored to advance, but Cape Verde has been frisky in the tournament to this point. The small nation notably gave Spain everything it could handle in the opening match, playing to a scoreless draw. It will need all of that effort and more to get a win against Argentina.
If Messi and Co. get the job done, as expected, they will be into the round of 16. Who would they play? When would it happen and where would it be?
Here's what to know about Argentina's potential round of 16 opponents as well as the date, time and location of the match:
Argentina potential round of 16 opponents
Argentina would face either Australia or Egypt in the round of 16 if it defeats Cape Verde.
It's a favorable draw for the Argentinians, who are heavily favored to advance out of the round of 32 after winning Group J over Austria, Algeria and Jordan.
Australia finished as the runner-up to the Americans in Group D, finishing with four points after posting a win, draw and loss in the opening three games. That was enough to earn the Australians a spot in the round of 32, with a knockout match against the Egyptians.
Egypt finished as the runner-up to Belgium in Group G because of goal differential.
It has already been a historic World Cup for the Pharaohs, who advanced to the knockout round for the first time in their history. They have a chance to continue riding the wave into the round of 16 if they can get past the Socceroos.
One way or another, a potential giant in Argentina could be awaiting the winner in Atlanta.
Argentina round of 16 match date
Argentina would play its round of 16 match on July 7 if it advances.
Argentina round of 16 match time
Argentina's round of 16 match would be played at noon ET if it advances.
Argentina round of 16 match location
Argentina's round of 16 match would be played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta if it advances. The home of the NFL's Atlanta Falcons, the venue is currently known as Atlanta Stadium due to FIFA sponsorship stipulations.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Who would Argentina play in round of 16? Potential World Cup opponents