De Paul warns against underestimating Cabo Verde, urges enjoyment of Messi

Argentina midfielder Rodrigo De Paul urged his team to take Cabo Verde seriously ahead of their World Cup round-of-16 clash. "Cabo Verde hizo los méritos necesarios para estar donde está" (Cabo Verde earned the right to be here), he said, stressing the need for patience and responsibility Source: Clarin. De Paul acknowledged that while the group stage draw suggested Spain and Uruguay as the main threats, "es fútbol y podía suceder" (it's football and it could happen) Source: Infobae.

Messi's last World Cup

De Paul also emphasized the importance of savoring Lionel Messi's presence, likely in his final World Cup. "Hay que disfrutar de Messi todos los días" (We must enjoy Messi every day), he said, adding that one values things more when they are gone Source: Infobae. He dismissed the notion of counting how many matches Argentina might have left with Messi, focusing instead on the present.

Approach to the match

Argentina have studied Cabo Verde extensively, watching videos, and know they face a fast opponent. "Tendremos que tener paciencia" (We will have to be patient), De Paul noted, while insisting Argentina will not abandon their style Source: Clarin. He concluded: "No nos vamos a guardar nada" (We will hold nothing back) Source: Infobae.