Cape Verde has stunned the football world at the FIFA World Cup 2026. This small country, with a population of 550,000, has made history by reaching the knockout stage of the tournament for the first time.

Cape Verde football 2026

Cape Verde made history with its impressive performance at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Located on the west coast of Africa, this small nation of approximately 550,000 secured a 0-0 draw against Saudi Arabia to advance to the Round of 32. This makes Cape Verde the smallest country in the history of the World Cup to reach the knockout stage.

Cape Verde remains unbeaten among heavyweights.

Cape Verde, competing in its first FIFA World Cup, was placed in a very tough group, but it never gave up. The team held 2010 world champions Spain to a 0-0 draw in the first match. It then played a thrilling 2-2 draw against two-time world champions Uruguay. In the third match, it denied Saudi Arabia a chance to score, securing three points with a 0-0 draw, and securing second place in the group. Spain, meanwhile, defeated Uruguay to finish first in the group.

Now there will be a big competition with Argentina

Cape Verde's next challenger in the Round of 32 will be defending world champions Argentina. The match between the two teams will be played in Miami on July 3. Cape Verde will be looking to pull off an upset in this match and secure a place in the last 16.

40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha became the hero of the victory

40-year-old goalkeeper Vojinha played a key role in Cape Verde's historic success. Her impressive performances throughout the tournament have captured the attention of football fans worldwide. In the match against Saudi Arabia, she saved her team from defeat with three superb saves. In first-half stoppage time, she blocked Mohamed Kanno's header. Then, in the second half, she brilliantly deflected a dangerous shot from Mohamed Abu Al-Shamat. In the 92nd minute, she saved Cape Verde from a perfect save from Abdullah Al-Hamdan.