Cape Verde made history this Friday, June 26, by qualifying for the round of 32 of a World Cup. The 0-0 draw against Saudi Arabia, combined with Uruguay’s defeat against Spain, allowed them to advance as second place in Group H.
The Blue Sharks fulfilled the objective they had set before the tournament and achieved the best performance in the history of Cape Verdean football. The qualification came in his absolute debut in a World Cup.
The final whistle sparked an unforgettable celebration at the Houston Stadium and in Cape Verde. Players, substitutes and coaching staff invaded the field with hugs, tears and jumps of emotion as they confirmed the historic pass to the next round.
The most emotional scene was played by goalkeeper Vozinha, who burst into tears after keeping the goal at zero. Then he approached the stands to hug his mother, in an image that quickly went viral during the 2026 World Cup.
Good day Cape Verde 🇨🇻
—– #FIFAWorldCup | #FIFAWorldCup2026 | #CapeVerde | #TubaroesAzuis | #WeAreCaboVerde pic.twitter.com/FdpiElV5Ew
— Federação Cabo-verdiana de Futebol (@fcfcomunica) June 27, 2026
The qualification also sparked a massive celebration in Praia, the capital of Cape Verde. The streets were filled with horns, drums, chants and fireworks after the final whistle.
Now, the excitement moves to the round of 32, where Cape Verde will face the current world champion, Argentina. It will be the first duel between both teams and the greatest challenge in the history of the African team.
🏆🌎 #FIFAWorldCup CAPE VERDE OF MY LIFE!
🇨🇻 The 69th team in the world does not lose a game in the World Cup, it comes second and will play against the world champion
🔝 THIS IS HOW THE HISTORICAL FEAT IS CELEBRATED IN THE COUNTRY
⚽#World2026 pic.twitter.com/xywu14YVCn
— Sports Carousel (@carousel) June 27, 2026
Cape Verde also made history by becoming the first team to advance to the next round of a World Cup without winning a single match in the group stage. Their three draws and a solid defense were enough to get their ticket to the round of 32.
Now, the Blue Sharks will face the greatest challenge in their history when they face Argentina. The African team will seek to prolong its World Cup dream supported by discipline, faith and the support of an entire country.