Why Argentina won’t win 2026 World Cup — Ian Wright

Former Arsenal striker, Ian Wright, says Argentina are vulnerable despite progressing to the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Wright made the assessment after Argentina’s hard-fought 3-2 victory over Cape Verde in the Round of 32, saying the defending champions showed weaknesses that stronger teams could exploit later in the tournament.

Argentina were pushed all the way by tournament debutants Cape Verde in Miami before securing victory in extra time.

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Lionel Messi opened the scoring for the South American side before Deroy Durate equalised to force extra time.

Lisandro Martinez restored Argentina’s lead, but Sidny Cabral responded with another equaliser to keep Cape Verde in the contest.

Argentina eventually found the winner in the 111th minute to secure a place in the last 16.

Speaking on ITV after the match, Wright said Argentina remain beatable.

“They are there to be beaten. If you can give the same kind of endeavour we saw Cape Verde give, but you have more quality in the final third, then Argentina are there to be beaten,” he said.

The former England international also highlighted what he believes is a defensive weakness in the Argentine team.

He added, “I think in the wide areas they are very weak. You can get at them in those areas.”

Argentina will continue their title defence in the Round of 16 as they aim to become the first nation since Brazil to successfully retain the FIFA World Cup title.