Cape Verde Make History with Unbeaten Group Stage
Cape Verde, nicknamed the Blue Sharks, became the first debutant team to reach the World Cup knockout stage without losing a match. Three goalless draws against Spain, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay gave them five points and second place in Group H.
The side showed resilience throughout the tournament, creating chances in each game. Late opportunities from Laros Duarte, Pina and Garry Rodrigues were not converted, but a disciplined defensive performance was enough to seal their passage.
In the Round of 32, Cape Verde will face Lionel Messi’s Argentina, a formidable challenge that will test their newfound confidence on the world stage.
Belgium Secure Top Spot in Group G
Belgium booked their place in the knockout rounds with a dominant 5-1 win over New Zealand in Vancouver. Leandro Trossard opened the scoring with a brace, while Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Jeremy Doku added further goals to seal the victory.
New Zealand briefly threatened through Elijah Just, but the Red Devils quickly restored their lead. The win gave Belgium the top position in Group G on goal difference and set up a Round of 32 clash against one of the tournament’s best third‑placed teams.
Egypt Keep Knockout Hopes Alive After Draw with Iran
In Seattle, Egypt and Iran played out a 1-1 draw during the city’s Pride Match. The result left Egypt with a chance to advance as one of the best third‑placed sides, while Iran’s progression remains in the same group France topped the table after a 4-1 victory over Norway.
Other Notable Results
Senegal boosted their knockout prospects with a resounding 5-0 victory over a 10‑man Iraq side. After a first‑half struggle, the Lions of Teranga took control, with Ismaïla Sarr scoring his third tournament goal and substitute Pape Gueye netting two long‑range strikes. Iliman Ndiaye completed the rout, leaving Iraq without a point in the competition.
Meanwhile, Uruguay’s World Cup campaign ended in the group stage after a 1-0 loss to Spain. The South Americans managed only two shots on target, both arriving after the 80th minute, and were eliminated following earlier draws against Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde.
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