Cape Verde reached the knockout rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after finishing second in group H behind Spain.
The African nation, making their debut at the Mundial, made more history as they reached the Round of 32 after a goalless draw against Saudi Arabia in their final group game saw them finish on three points.
Spain topped the group with seven points, Cape Verde closely followed the European champions in second, while Uruguay and Saudi Arabia finished third and fourth with two points each.
Cape Verde make history at 2026 World Cup
Only few would have expected Cape Verde to progress out of their group when the draws was conducted, but the tiny Island nation have now joined Spain in progressing from Group H.
Their journey began with a goalless draw against the European champions in their opening encounter, a game that saw goalkeeper Vozinha rise to prominence.
Related: How Cape Verde made World Cup history
They followed that up with another impressive result against Uruguay, sealing a 2-2 draw against the South American giants.
Heading into the final matchday, their task was simple; equal or better Uruguay’s result against Spain and they were through.
With the South Americans losing 1-0 against Spain after an error from Fernando Muslera allowed Alex Baena to score, Cape Verde only needed a point to finish as runners-up from the group.
They did just that, sealing maximum points and they have now advanced to the knockout rounds in what is becoming a fairytale run for the African country.
What next?
Cape Verde’s task does not get any easier. Up next for them is a clash against the defending champions Argentina and Lionel Messi in Miami on July 3.
