Pico

ANALYSIS
Unsurprisingly, against the reigning World Cup champion captained by Golden Boot leader Lionel Messi, Pico's active defense continued. For each of Cape Verde's games, the center-back logged at least three clearances. All but once, Pico recorded multiple interceptions and blocks. Even though his effort did not stop Argentina from advancing, he and Cabo Verde's defensive line did not go unnoticed. In regulation, Cape Verde's team did not lose any of four games, and its Pico-Diney pairing was a strong pair down the middle. Overall, Pico logged 30 clearances, eight blocks, seven interceptions and five tackles won (out of seven total) across four appearances.