Cape Verde has made history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup by advancing to the knockout stage in its debut appearance. The African island nation secured its place among the last 32 after a goalless draw with Saudi Arabia in its final Group H match. Spain topped the group with seven points after defeating Uruguay 1–0, while Cape Verde finished second with three points from three consecutive draws. Uruguay and Saudi Arabia were eliminated with two points each.

Argentina, the reigning world champion, had already secured first place in its group and will now face Cape Verde in the round of 32. The match is scheduled for July 3 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, marking the first-ever meeting between the two teams in World Cup history.

If Argentina wins, it will advance to the round of 16 to face the winner between the runners-up of Groups D and G. Cape Verde’s remarkable debut run has drawn global attention, and the team now faces the challenge of continuing its fairytale journey against one of football’s strongest sides.