Cape Verde continued to win hearts at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after producing another stunning performance to hold two-time champions Uruguay to a thrilling 2-2 draw in their Group H clash at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
In what turned out to be one of the most entertaining matches of the tournament so far, the African side once again showed courage and resilience as they came from behind to earn a valuable point against one of football’s traditional powerhouses.
Cape Verde struck first in spectacular fashion in the 21st minute when Kevin Pina unleashed a brilliant long-range free-kick that found its way through Uruguay’s wall and into the net, sending their supporters into celebration.
Uruguay responded just before halftime with a quick-fire turnaround.
Maxi Araújo brought the South Americans level in the 44th minute before turning provider moments later, setting up Agustín Canobbio deep into added time to give Marcelo Bielsa’s men a 2-1 lead at the break.
But Cape Verde refused to surrender.
The underdogs returned with renewed determination in the second half and found their equaliser in unusual circumstances in the 61st minute. A costly defensive mistake from Uruguay saw goalkeeper Fernando Muslera rush out of position, allowing substitute Hélio Varela to calmly lift the ball into an empty net.
The closing stages produced end-to-end drama.
Uruguay thought they had found a late winner through Araújo, but celebrations were cut short after the goal was ruled out for offside. Cape Verde also came close to snatching a famous victory, with Laros Duarte denied by the goalkeeper before Varela was stopped from grabbing his second goal of the night.
The result keeps Cape Verde’s remarkable World Cup campaign alive and leaves them in a strong position heading into their final Group H match against Saudi Arabia.
Uruguay, meanwhile, may now need a positive result in their final group game against Spain to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.
Advertisement