On the morning of June 27 (Beijing time), Cape Verde, the biggest surprise package of the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far, played out a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia in the Group H match.
The result left the African island nation with three points from three consecutive draws, enough to finish second in the group ahead of Uruguay, which ended on two points, and secure a place in the last 32.
With a population of just over 500,000, Cape Verde stunned football fans in its opening World Cup match by holding both FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championship winner Spain to a 0-0 draw, producing the biggest upset of the opening round of the group stage. Goalkeeper Vozinha made seven crucial saves during the match to earn widespread attention.
Cape Verde then faced another former World Cup champion, Uruguay. Thanks to two outstanding goals, the team earned a 2-2 draw, keeping its hopes of advancing alive heading into the final group match.
Against Saudi Arabia, which was also seeking a victory to keep its qualification hopes alive, Cape Verde adopted an attacking approach, pressing aggressively and creating numerous chances. The team registered 15 shots but failed to find the net, as the match ended in a goalless draw.
In the other Group H fixture, Spain defeated Uruguay 1-0, allowing Cape Verde to finish second in the group with three points from three matches and qualify for the last 32.
In the Round of 32, Cape Verde will face defending champion Argentina, with in-form goalkeeper Vozinha set for a showdown against Lionel Messi.
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