The Times of India

Cape Verde make World Cup history, joining only three nations ever to pull off rare qualification milestone

Cape Verde completed a historic FIFA World Cup 2026 debut by reaching the Round of 32 after three draws, finishing second in Group H behind Spain. A 0-0 result against Saudi Arabia, combined with Spains win over Uruguay, sealed qualification. The debutants became the smallest nation ever to reach the knockout stage, setting up a clash with Argentina.