Cape Verde became the smallest country by population ever to reach the knockout stage of a men’s World Cup after a goalless draw with Saudi Arabia in their group stage finale in Houston on Friday.
The result, reported by ESPN, caps a remarkable debut tournament for the island nation, who went through the entire group stage without losing a single match.
Cape Verde finish undefeated on three points and take second place in Group H behind 2010 winners Spain, and a point ahead of two-time World Cup champions Uruguay.
Cape Verde also became the first team in 28 years to progress to the knockouts after three drawn matches. Wales achieved the feat in 1958, followed by Ireland and the Netherlands in 1990, and Chile in 1998.
The small island nation, making its debut on football’s grandest stage, had already held 2010 champion Spain to a 0-0 draw before coming from behind to earn a 2-2 result against Uruguay. You can revisit that memorable opener in our Spain vs Cape Verde highlights.
“We are small, ” said Vozinha after the final whistle. “But we have big hearts and we are fighters.” The 40-year-old has become one of the most talked-about figures at this World Cup.
Coach Bubista, draped in his country’s flag, said: “We are proud of having arrived at this stage. We have shown that we are a small country, but that we fight for the things that we want to achieve.”
Midfielder Deroy Duarte added: “Honestly, it’s mad. I feel like I’m in a dream. Ever since I was a kid, I’ve always dreamed of playing in a World Cup. First, let’s celebrate. We’re so happy. Let’s hope all Cape Verdeans are happy too. From tomorrow, we’ll focus on the next match.”
Uruguay’s defeat to Spain at the same time means they join Saudi Arabia in succumbing to an early exit, leaving Cape Verde as the undisputed story of Group H and one of the most captivating sides at the 2026 World Cup.
