GUWAHATI: Cabo Verde scripted one of the biggest stories of the FIFA World Cup 2026 by reaching the knockout stage in their debut appearance, becoming the smallest nation by both population and land area ever to qualify for the Round of 32.
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The Blue Sharks secured their historic place after playing out a goalless draw against Saudi Arabia, finishing second in Group H behind Spain. Spain's victory over Uruguay in the other group match ensured Cabo Verde advanced to the knockout stage.
Players gathered around a mobile phone on the pitch after the final whistle to watch the closing moments of Spain's match against Uruguay, celebrating once the result confirmed their qualification.
The island nation progressed without winning a single group-stage match, drawing against European champions Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. According to FIFA, Cabo Verde are the first team since Chile at the 1998 World Cup to reach the knockout stage without recording a group-stage victory.
An archipelago of 10 volcanic islands off the west coast of Africa, Cabo Verde is making its first-ever appearance at the FIFA World Cup. Their qualification marks a historic milestone for the nation, which has a population of just over half a million people.
Saudi Arabia finished bottom of Group H with two points, while Spain topped the standings and Uruguay were eliminated.
Cabo Verde will now face defending world champions Argentina in the Round of 32 in Miami on July 3, as they look to continue their remarkable World Cup journey.