Round of 32 · Match 14
ArgentinavsCape Verde
2026-07-03·18:00 local·Hard Rock Stadium · MiamiPredictions finalised
Match signals
Factors that favour each side, from statistical models to group stage form and match conditions. Longer bars = stronger advantage.
Argentina are dominant at 81% vs Cape Verde's 2%. Quality, form, and model estimates all point the same way. An upset here would be a major story.
📊What the Models Say
Rates teams by a single strength number updated after every match. Simpler but fast to react. It rates Argentina at 85% to win vs Cape Verde at 0%.
Simulates the goal-scoring process using attack and defence strength. The heaviest-weighted model. It rates Argentina at 81% to win vs Cape Verde at 4%.
Groups teams by confederation to share information. Helps for teams with fewer matches. It rates Argentina at 79% to win vs Cape Verde at 5%.
The published probability after calibration and adjustments. This is what the model says. It rates Argentina at 81% to win vs Cape Verde at 2%.
All 3 models agree: Argentina is favoured. When models agree, the signal is stronger.
⚽Tournament Form
Argentina collected 18 points (6W 0D 0L) vs Cape Verde's 3 (0W 3D 1L). A stronger tournament record.
Argentina averaged 2.83 goals per match vs Cape Verde's 1.0. More firepower coming in.
Similar defensive records: Argentina 1.0, Cape Verde 1.25 goals conceded per match.
Argentina's goal difference of +11 is better than Cape Verde's -1. They outperformed opponents by more.
📈Momentum
Both teams' ratings moved similarly during the tournament (Argentina +26.7, Cape Verde +31.5).
Cape Verde's players improved their form ratings during the tournament (+0.0125) vs Argentina (+0.0017). Players trending upward.
🏆Team Quality
Argentina is rated 2113 vs Cape Verde's 1549 (gap: 564). That's a very large gap in historical team strength.
The model expects Argentina to create 2.16 expected goals vs Cape Verde's 0.32. More and better chances projected.
Similar star-player quality in both squads.
Argentina's starters play together at club level more often (0.043 cohesion) than Cape Verde's (0.000). More shared understanding on the pitch.
🌍Match Conditions
Cape Verde traveled 5,975km vs Argentina's 7,364km. A shorter journey means less fatigue.
Argentina face a 1h timezone shift vs Cape Verde's 3h. Less jet lag disruption.
17 signals across 5 categories. Signal strength reflects how large the gap is between the two teams on each factor. Signals are descriptive, not prescriptive.
Tahmin
Match-outcome probability
- Argentina win70.7%
- Draw23.9%
- Cape Verde win5.4%
A clash of identities: Argentina's possession-dominant approach meets Cape Verde's high-press style in a fixture the model gives to Argentina at 81%.
▸Goller ve skorlar
Likeliest score 2–0 (19.5%) · xG 2.2 - 0.3
Expected goals
Mean of the Dixon-Coles joint goal distribution. Same fit that produces the most-likely-scoreline list below.
Most likely scorelines
- 2–019.5%
- 1–017.7%
- 3–014.1%
- 0–08.7%
- 4–07.6%
From the Dixon-Coles joint Poisson with the low-score correction. Scorelines are listed in probability order; this is a description of the model's distribution, not a recommendation.
Most likely half-time scorelines
- 1–030.9%
- 0–029.3%
- 2–016.9%
- 3–06.1%
- 1–15.3%
Same Dixon-Coles fit as the full-time list above, with rates halved to a 45-minute window and the low-score correction applied to that 1st-half block. The 0-0 row sits higher here than at full-time because fewer minutes have elapsed.
Goal totals
- More than 0.5 goals91.3%
- More than 1.5 goals71.2%
- More than 2.5 goals45.1%
- More than 3.5 goals23.8%
- More than 4.5 goals10.6%
- More than 5.5 goals4.1%
- Both teams score24.6%
Each row is the probability the match finishes with more than the listed number of goals. Both-teams-to-score is the probability each side scores at least once. All values are marginals of the Dixon-Coles joint goal grid that produces the scoreline list above — not market lines or any other operator construct.
Event-typed probabilities
- Argentina clean sheetOpposing team scores zero72.6%
- Cape Verde clean sheetOpposing team scores zero11.5%
Derived from the same Dixon-Coles joint distribution as the scoreline list. These are descriptive event probabilities — see CLAUDE.md §3/§4 (formerly COMPLIANCE.md §4.2.7) for the framing the project uses.
Win-margin probability
- Argentina by 4+14.2%
- Argentina by 3+30.9%
- Argentina by 2+55.3%
- Argentina by 1+80.1%
- Draw16.0%
- Cape Verde by 1+4.0%
- Cape Verde by 2+0.6%
- Cape Verde by 3+0.1%
- Cape Verde by 4+0.0%
Each row is the probability the match ends with the listed margin or larger in that direction. Marginal of the Dixon-Coles joint goal grid; the “by 1+” rows plus the draw row sum to 1.
▸Maç nasıl şekillenir
Over 2.5 goals 45.1% · BTTS 24.6%
Game state through the match
- Argentina ahead80.4%
- Level15.3%
- Cape Verde ahead4.3%
Probability of each game state at minutes 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90 — derived from two independent thinned-Poisson processes with the Dixon-Coles per-team rates. The three lines always sum to 1 at each minute. The right column shows the state at the match's closing minute.
When the first goal arrives
- 0–1533.9%
- 15–3022.4%
- 30–4514.8%
- 45–609.8%
- 60–756.5%
- 75–904.3%
- No goal8.4%
Probability the match's first goal arrives in each 15-minute window. Homogeneous Poisson with combined rate λ = λh + λa from the Dixon-Coles fit; the seven rows (six windows + no-goal tail) sum to 1.
Half-time / full-time grid
| HT ↓ / FT → | HArgentina win | DDraw | ACape Verde win |
|---|---|---|---|
| HArgentina ahead | 58.2% | 1.8% | 0.1% |
| DLevel | 21.0% | 11.9% | 1.9% |
| ACape Verde ahead | 1.3% | 1.7% | 2.2% |
Each cell is P(half-time result, full-time result). All nine cells sum to 1. Derived from a halved-λ Dixon-Coles fit for the first half plus an independent-Poisson second-half convolution.
Comeback probability
- Argentina trail at HT, avoid defeat at FT3.0%
- Cape Verde trail at HT, avoid defeat at FT1.9%
Joint probability — P(side trailing at half-time AND avoiding defeat at full-time). NOT conditional on trailing at HT. Derived from the same half-time / full-time decomposition that produces the HT/FT grid above; a tied first half is neither a home nor an away comeback opportunity.
PK shootout simulator
If the match ends level after extra time, the model estimates the shootout outcome from each team's Bayesian-smoothed conversion / save rate (Model #15). The bracket simulator uses the symmetric (averaged) ordering; the two what-if scenarios below show how the win probabilities shift when conditioning on which team kicks first.
- Argentina67.7%
- Cape Verde32.3%
- Argentina79.5%
- Cape Verde20.4%
- Argentina56.3%
- Cape Verde43.7%
First-kicker advantage
The first kicker's per-kick conversion rate is scaled by ×1.050 (about +5.0%), stacked on the Markov chain's structural asymmetry. Real World Cup shootouts use a coin toss for kicker order, so on average the order is 50/50 — the symmetric path above is the relevant number for a single fixture. The ordering-conditioned probabilities are a descriptive what-if scenario.
Literature: first kickers win ≈ 60% historically (Apesteguia & Palacios-Huerta, American Economic Review 2010; Vandebroek et al. 2016).
Per-team posteriors: Argentina conv 77.0%, save 27.9%; Cape Verde conv 72.0%, save 20.0%. Smoothed against the global prior with prior strength 20 — see /docs/methodology/.
▸Takımlar ve oyuncular
Top scorer: Messi (12.2%)
Match detail
Argentina
Model-rated key players: Lionel Messi (FW) — P(scores) 12.2%; Lautaro Martínez (FW) — P(scores) 8.1%; Nicolás González (FW) — P(scores) 6.3%.
Argentina under Lionel Scaloni play a possession dominant game, holding 59% of the ball — among the highest in the tournament field. Their likely shape is a 4-3-3, though they have also used 3-5-2 and 4-4-2. They apply moderate pressing intensity (PPDA 19.1) and build patiently through midfield with 7.8 passes per attacking sequence. They favour high-quality chances (xG/shot 0.163, among the best in the field).
To succeed, Argentina must control tempo and territory in midfield — their possession-dominant approach depends on dictating the rhythm of each match. Managing minutes for Lionel Messi across what could be seven matches will test the coaching staff's rotation planning.
Cape Verde
Model-rated key players: Nuno da Costa (FW) — P(scores) 5.1%; Dailon Livramento (FW) — P(scores) 2.1%; Ryan Mendes (FW) — P(scores) 2.1%.
Cape Verde under Bubista play a high press game with 53% possession. They apply moderate pressing intensity (PPDA 17.2) and move the ball forward quickly at 5.7 passes per attack. They generate a high volume of shots (13.2 per 90).
Cape Verde need their high press to force turnovers in dangerous areas — if opponents can play through the press, the space left behind is vulnerable. Physical conditioning and squad rotation will be critical to sustain pressing intensity across a long tournament.
Argentina's predicted XI averages 1,997 club minutes over the 2024-25 season (moderate load).
Argentina coverage: 85.0% (11/11 XI matched against the FBref Big-5) · Cape Verde: 24.0% (3/11).
Argentina historically converts 17.1% of xG from set-pieces, contributing 0.37 expected set-piece goals in this fixture. Cape Verde converts 16.1% from set-pieces (0.05 expected). Combined, the model expects 0.42 set-piece goals across the 90 minutes.
- P(Argentina scores set-piece goal) 30.9%
- P(Cape Verde scores set-piece goal) 5.0%
- P(set-piece goal in match) 34.3%
Argentina: Lionel Messi on corners (32 corners), Guido Rodríguez on free kicks (per fbref 2022 23)
If a penalty is awarded to Argentina, the model gives 77.0% conversion, 72.0% for Cape Verde. If this match goes to a shootout, the symmetric (coin-toss averaged) win probability is 67.7% Argentina / 32.3% Cape Verde.
Argentina primary PK: Lionel Messi (3/5 in 2020-21, per fbref 2022 23) · Cape Verde primary PK: Nuno da Costa (1/1 in 2018-19, per fbref 2018 19).
Derived from the model's per-fixture forecast joint and supporting reference data (predicted squads, set-piece xG share, PK posteriors, club minutes). See /docs/methodology/ for the full methodology.
Squad depth
Most irreplaceable starters
Argentina
- Giovani Lo CelsoAttacking midfieldNo natural backup0.30gap
- Lautaro MartínezStrikerCover: José Manuel López · 0.670.30gap
- Leandro ParedesDefensive midfieldNo natural backup0.26gap
Cape Verde
- Logan CostaCentre-backCover: Diney · 0.360.41gap
- Kevin PinaDefensive midfieldCover: Laros Duarte · 0.280.25gap
- Jamiro MonteiroCentral midfieldCover: Yannick Semedo · 0.130.24gap
Gap = how far a side's rating at the position falls from the starter to his likely in-squad replacement (named under each name). Larger = harder to replace. Descriptive metric, does not feed the published probabilities. Methodology →
Match conditions
- AltitudeNear sea level3 m
- Avg temperatureFive-year mean over the tournament window27.0 °C
- Avg humidity82%
- Heat stressShade WBGT ~30.7 °CHigh heat stress
- Pitch surfacenatural grass
Already plays on natural Bermudagrass; no turf conversion needed.
Heat stress is a shade Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature proxy from the venue's climatology mean temperature and humidity; FIFA mandates cooling breaks at WBGT 32 °C. Evening kickoff (local time). These are long-window averages, not a match-day forecast, and they are not inputs to the forecast.
Top scorers · P(scores in this match)
- Lionel MessiPKFW12.2%
- Lautaro MartínezFW8.1%
- Nicolás GonzálezFW6.3%
- Nuno da CostaPKFW5.1%
- Dailon LivramentoFW2.1%
- Ryan MendesFW2.1%
Per-player scoring rate from Model #5 (`p_score_per_match`). Reflects each player's npxG/90, expected minutes, team xG share, and the average opposing-team defence. See /docs/methodology/.
Recent match form
Last match player ratings
Argentina
vs Jordan · avg 8.0
Cape Verde
vs Saudi Arabia · avg 6.3
Player scores from official highlight analysis of each team's most recent match. Observational, not a model input. Methodology →
Video analysis: player performance
Per-player ratings and event breakdowns from official highlights analysis. Tap a player to see their full match timeline.
8Lisandro MartínezScored two vital goals, including one in extra time, to put Argentina ahead, overcoming an earlier defensive miscue.
Scored two vital goals, including one in extra time, to put Argentina ahead, overcoming an earlier defensive miscue.
8Cristian RomeroScored the decisive winning goal in extra time with a powerful header from a corner, showcasing his aerial threat.
Scored the decisive winning goal in extra time with a powerful header from a corner, showcasing his aerial threat.
7Emiliano MartínezMade several critical saves, particularly in extra time, to preserve Argentina's lead, despite conceding two goals.
Made several critical saves, particularly in extra time, to preserve Argentina's lead, despite conceding two goals.
7Nahuel Molina18'–18'Provided the assist for Messi's opening goal and contributed with attacking runs from his defensive position.
▼
Provided the assist for Messi's opening goal and contributed with attacking runs from his defensive position.
Match timeline
6Lautaro MartínezHad a couple of attempts on goal, one of which was well-saved, but ultimately failed to convert his chances.
Had a couple of attempts on goal, one of which was well-saved, but ultimately failed to convert his chances.
6Leandro ParedesCame on as a substitute and immediately contributed with two shots on target, though neither found the net.
Came on as a substitute and immediately contributed with two shots on target, though neither found the net.
6Alexis Mac AllisterRegistered a shot on target that was saved but otherwise had a limited impact during his time on the field.
Registered a shot on target that was saved but otherwise had a limited impact during his time on the field.
5Gonzalo MontielReceived a yellow card for a foul in extra time, with no other significant contributions noted.
Received a yellow card for a foul in extra time, with no other significant contributions noted.
9Vozinha14'–17'Delivered an exceptional goalkeeping performance, making numerous world-class saves to keep Cape Verde competitive against a relentless Argentine attack.
2saves▼
Delivered an exceptional goalkeeping performance, making numerous world-class saves to keep Cape Verde competitive against a relentless Argentine attack.
Match timeline
8Sidny Lopes CabralScored a spectacular and crucial overhead kick to equalize for Cape Verde in extra time, also contributing defensively with a block.
Scored a spectacular and crucial overhead kick to equalize for Cape Verde in extra time, also contributing defensively with a block.
7Deroy DuarteScored a vital equalizing goal for Cape Verde, demonstrating good finishing, but also committed a late foul on Messi.
Scored a vital equalizing goal for Cape Verde, demonstrating good finishing, but also committed a late foul on Messi.
4Pico LopesHad a difficult spell, almost scoring an own goal and being involved in a VAR review for a potential handball.
Had a difficult spell, almost scoring an own goal and being involved in a VAR review for a potential handball.
Match observations
- The match was a thrilling, high-scoring affair that extended into extra time.
- Argentina initially took the lead through Messi, but Cabo Verde showed remarkable resilience, equalising twice.
- Both teams displayed strong attacking intent, with numerous shots on target and dramatic saves from both goalkeepers.
▸Perde arkası
Model-by-model comparison
Argentina vs Cape Verde
| Model | Weight | Home | Draw | Away |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EloRating-based strength estimate | 32% | 85.2% | 14.8% | 0.0% |
| Dixon-ColesGoal-process model with low-score correction | 63% | 81.4% | 14.8% | 3.8% |
| Hierarchical PoissonBayesian model with confederation pooling | 6% | 78.9% | 16.1% | 5.1% |
| Bayesian stackingLearned-weight combination | — | 93.0% | 7.0% | 0.0% |
| Ensemble (published)Uniform average + isotonic calibration | — | 81.0% | 17.5% | 1.5% |
How each model works
- Elo
- Each team carries a single strength rating updated after every match by a margin-aware K-factor. Match probabilities come from the logistic function of the rating gap. Elo is fast-adapting but coarse — it sees only who won and by how much, not how the goals were scored.
- Dixon-Coles
- A Poisson regression on team-level attack and defence parameters, fitted via maximum likelihood with an exponential time-decay weighting. The Dixon-Coles correction adjusts the four low-score cells (0-0, 1-0, 0-1, 1-1) where independent Poisson underestimates dependence. Produces full scoreline distributions, not just H/D/A.
- Hierarchical Poisson
- A Bayesian Poisson model fitted via MCMC (PyMC) with hierarchical priors that pool attack and defence parameters within confederations. Shrinks small-sample teams toward their confederation mean — helpful for nations with few recent competitive fixtures. Slower to fit but better-calibrated on the tails.
- Bayesian stacking
- Optimises simplex weights (w_elo, w_dc, w_hp) to maximise the leave-one-out log-score across a walk-forward backtest (Yao et al. 2018). The result is a weighted average of the three component models' probabilities, then isotonic-calibrated. Adds no extra features — just learns which component to trust more from historical accuracy.
- Ensemble (published)
- Equal-weight average of all three component models, followed by per-class isotonic regression calibration fitted on 24 months of walk-forward out-of-fold predictions. This is the probability published on the site. The uniform mean is deliberately simple — it avoids overfitting to the stacking weights' training window.
Three independent component models feed two combination strategies. The uniform ensemble is the published probability; Bayesian stacking uses learned weights. Amber bars flag >5pp divergence from the published number. Full methodology
Latest news & match context
- Stage:
- Round of 32 · Match 14
- Date:
- 3 Jul
- Venue:
- Hard Rock Stadium, Miami
a 27°C kickoff modestly suppresses expected scoring at this venue.
Ranked by likely importance. None of these feed the forecast: the probabilities rest on team strength, venue conditions and the style matchup.
- 1.Elimination stakes: A one-off elimination tie. Motivation, risk appetite and game management under tournament pressure are not model inputs; the forecast rests on team strength and the style matchup.
- 2.Rest differential: Cape Verde have had 7 days since their previous match versus 6 for Argentina. Rest and recovery are not model inputs.
Argentina
Argentina come in at close to full strength.
Cape Verde
Cape Verde come in at close to full strength.
Argentina and Cape Verde both come in at close to full strength, so the forecast rests on baseline team strength rather than late team-news swings.
Availability from the predicted squads and injury feed; forecast adjustments from the model's own decomposition. See /docs/methodology/.
Standard Pass
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