Cape Verde Matches Cameroon and Senegal’s World Cup Milestone After 2‑2 Draw with Uruguay

Cape Verde’s national team, nicknamed the Blue Sharks, matched the achievement of Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions and Senegal’s Teranga Lions at the World Cup after drawing 2‑2 with Uruguay in Group H.

In their second group match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, Cape Verde held the two‑time world champions Uruguay to a 2‑2 draw.

Cape Verde also forced the 2010 World Cup winners Spain to a goalless draw in its inaugural match.

Stats Foot reports that Cape Verde, with two draws, is the third African nation to remain unbeaten in its first two World Cup matches, following Cameroon in 1982 (two draws) and Senegal in 2002 (one win, one draw).

Also Read: World Cup 2026: Oliseh Picks Cape Verde As Africa’s Most Impressive Team

Kevin Pina gave Cape Verde the lead in the 21st minute with a stunning long‑range free‑kick that passed through Uruguay’s two‑man wall.

However, with only one minute remaining in the first half, Maxi Araujo equalised for Uruguay, scoring his second goal of the tournament.

In the sixth minute of first‑half stoppage time, Araujo provided the assist for Agustin Canobbio, giving Uruguay a 2‑1 lead.

Cape Verde remained undeterred, equalising in the 61st minute through Helio Varela. A misdirected square pass from Mathias Olivera caused goalkeeper Fernando Muslera to rush out, but Varela flicked the ball over him and into the empty net.

A victory over Saudi Arabia on June 26 in their final group match would advance Cape Verde to the round of 32.

In the other Group H match, Spain defeated Saudi Arabia 4‑0, securing their first win of the tournament.

By James Agberebi

James Agberebi

James is a sport content creator and also does analysis on sports. Also, James has covered international matches involving both Nigeria’s men and women national teams. Facebook : James Agberebi