Cape Verde, the smallest nation to reach the World Cup knockout stages, will face defending champions Argentina in Miami on Friday (23:00 BST) in the Round of 32.
Roberto 'Pico' Lopes, a centre-back for Cape Verde, has been instrumental in his side's progression, helping them remain unbeaten in Group H with draws against Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia.
His mother, Judy Lopes, expressed confidence in her son's ability to handle the pressure, stating, "He'll relish the challenge of taking on Messi at the weekend and he's always very composed, confident and performs very well under pressure."
Cape Verde conceded only two goals in the group stage, while Lionel Messi has already scored six goals in what is expected to be his final World Cup.
Roberto “Pico” Lopes is a 28-year-old central defender who currently plays for Portuguese Primeira Liga side Vitória de Guimarães. He moved there in the summer of 2024 from Irish Premier Division club Shamrock Rovers. Prior to that, he spent two seasons (2022-2024) at Galway United. He received a call-up to the Cape Verde senior national team in early 2025.