Cape Verde, the smallest nation ever to reach the knockout rounds, face Lionel Messi and Argentina in a high-stakes World Cup match.The Atlantic archipelago has defied expectations by advancing past Group H, earning a draw with Spain and beating Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.Argentina, led by Messi's six-goal performance, is expected to dominate, but Cape Verde coach Bubista insists his team will not be intimidated.Midfielder Deroy Duarte emphasized the honor of facing the world champions.Argentina's coach Scaloni acknowledged Cape Verde's strength, noting their unbeaten group stage record.Meanwhile, other African teams like Ghana and Egypt aim to break a poor knockout round trend.Portugal and Spain advanced with dramatic wins, while Algeria and others were eliminated.The match highlights the underdog vs.powerhouse dynamic in the tournament.