Cape Verde’s dream debut at the 2026 FIFA World Cup reached another historic milestone as the island nation secured qualification for the Round of 32 after a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Saudi Arabia, while Spain sealed top spot in Group H with a narrow victory over Uruguay.
At NRG Stadium, Cape Verde produced another disciplined display to earn the point they needed and continue one of the tournament’s most inspiring stories.
Making their first-ever appearance at the World Cup, the nation of around 500,000 people has emerged as one of the surprise packages of the competition after impressive performances against established football powers earlier in the group stage.
Although there were scenarios that could have seen Cape Verde finish first, Spain’s victory elsewhere meant the debutants ended the group phase as runners-up.
The goalless encounter against Saudi Arabia lacked major moments in front of goal but carried huge tension, with Cape Verde staying compact and organised to protect the result that guaranteed progression.
Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, exited the tournament at the bottom of Group H after failing to secure a victory in the group stage.
Cape Verde’s reward is a blockbuster Round of 32 clash against Argentina as their remarkable World Cup journey continues.
Elsewhere in Guadalajara, Spain booked first place in the group with a 1-0 win over Uruguay and ended the South Americans’ hopes of reaching the knockout stage.
The decisive moment came shortly before half-time when Alex Baena’s effort found its way into the net after veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera was unable to keep it out.
Uruguay struggled to respond and their disappointing campaign continued to unravel after the break.
Head coach Marcelo Bielsa made major changes, including withdrawing Muslera at half-time, while captain Federico Valverde was also substituted before the hour mark as frustration grew.
The match ended on a sour note for Uruguay when Agustin Canobbio received a red card deep into stoppage time following a reckless challenge.
Spain controlled proceedings without needing to reach top gear and comfortably protected their lead to finish as Group H winners.
The result confirmed Spain and Cape Verde as the teams advancing from the group, while two-time champions Uruguay suffered a shock early exit after collecting just two points from three matches.
Spain will now face the runners-up from Group J in the Round of 32, while Cape Verde prepare for the biggest match in their football history against Argentina.
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