TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Cape Verde has secured a round of 32 ticket at the 2026 World Cup, becoming the smallest nation by population to ever make the knockout stage, according to ESPN.
Cape Verde, the tournament debutant, advanced after holding Saudi Arabia to a goalless draw in the final match of Group F at Houston Stadium on Saturday, June 27, 2026. The result was enough to propel the African representatives into the round of 32.
During the match, Willy Semedo came close to opening the scoring in the 22nd minute, but his shot was blocked by goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais. Saudi Arabia responded with a header from Mohamed Kanno just before half-time, but it was safely handled by Vozinha.
In the second half, Cape Verde created several opportunities. Jamiro Monteiro and Kevin Lenini threatened the Saudi goal, and the best chance came through Laros Duarte in the 75th minute. However, Al Owais once again made a brilliant save.
Saudi Arabia made a push in the closing minutes. Their best opportunity came in injury time through Abdullah Al Hamdan, but his shot was easily collected by Vozinha.
The score remained 0-0 until the final whistle. The draw ensured Cape Verde's advancement to the knockout stage in their debut in the tournament, while Saudi Arabia was eliminated from the 2026 World Cup.
Spain's footballer Alex Baena (left) celebrates after scoring against Uruguay in the Group H match of the 2026 World Cup at the Akron Stadium, Guadalajara, Mexico, June 27, 2026. ANTARA/Aditya Pradana Putra
In another match, Spain concluded the group stage of the 2026 World Cup with a 1-0 victory over Uruguay at Estadio Guadalajara. This result ensured La Roja's advancement as group champions with a perfect record of three wins from three matches.
Spain's lone winning goal was scored in the 42nd minute by Alex Baena. His shot towards the middle of the goal was not well anticipated by goalkeeper Fernando Muslera, leading to the ball finding the back of the net.
Uruguay attempted to rally in the second half and had a chance through Mathias Olivera in the 82nd minute. However, goalkeeper Unai Simon made a crucial save to maintain Spain's lead.
La Roja almost added another goal in the 86th minute when Ferran Torres' shot hit the goalpost. Meanwhile, Uruguay had to finish the game with 10 players after Agustin Canobbio received a red card in injury time.
The score remained 1-0 until the end of the match. The victory solidified Spain as the Group F champions, while Uruguay must await the results of other groups to determine their chances of advancing as one of the best third-placed teams.
Read: 2026 World Cup Surprise: Cape Verde Hold Spain to Goalless Draw
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