Cape Verde are at World Cup 2026 Round of 32- Photo credit: X media
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Cape Verde secured a historic place in the 2026 World Cup knockout stages after a goalless draw against Saudi Arabia, becoming one of the biggest stories of the tournament. The Blue Sharks finished second in Group H with three points, ahead of two-time world champions Uruguay and tournament hosts Saudi Arabia.
Softfootball understands that the result means Cape Verde, appearing at their first-ever World Cup, will face defending champions Argentina in the round of 32 at Miami Stadium on Friday, 3 July.
The African debutants created the better chances during the match, with Willy Semedo forcing a save at the near post before firing another effort wide. Kevin Pina also came close after the break with a long-range strike that narrowly missed the target.
Saudi Arabia suffered a setback when defender Hassan Al Tambakti was forced off after collapsing without contact and leaving the pitch on a stretcher.
Cape Verde’s qualification sparked emotional celebrations as players gathered around a phone after the final whistle to confirm Uruguay’s defeat to Spain had secured their progression. They became the first African debutants to reach the knockout stage since Ghana in 2006.
Cape Verde are at World Cup 2026 Round of 32- Photo credit: FIFA media
Midfielder Deroy Duarte described the achievement as a dream, saying the team would celebrate before focusing on the challenge of facing Lionel Messi’s Argentina.
