FIFA World Cup 2026: Cabo Verde set multiple WC records in 2-2 stalemate with Uruguay
Miami, June 22
As FIFA World Cup debutants Cabo Verde produced a clinical performance to hold two-time champions Uruguay to a 2-2 draw in a thrilling clash of the ongoing World Cup 2026 edition at Miami Stadium on Sunday, June 21, Uruguayan Fernando Muslera and Verde Vozinha, from Cape Verde, became the first pair of players over 40 to start in a WC fixture.
Following Uruguay's clash against Cape Verde, substitutes have now scored 23 goals at the tournament, the third-highest tally at a World Cup since 1966, behind only 2014 (32) and 2022 (30), excluding own goals, as per Opta.
Cabo Verde is the first nation since Senegal in 2002 to go undefeated in their first two World Cup matches (2D), while their tally of just five fouls is the lowest recorded by any team through two games at a World Cup since 1966.
Cabo Verde also became the first team since at least 1966 to score their maiden FIFA World Cup goal directly from a free-kick. Remarkably, it came from just their second shot on target of the tournament.
Cabo Verde made history in the 21st minute when Kevin Pina scored the nation's first-ever FIFA World Cup goal. The midfielder curled in a long-range free-kick that beat Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera and gave the tournament newcomers a surprise lead.
The result marks another landmark moment for Cabo Verde in their maiden FIFA World Cup campaign, keeping Group H finely poised heading into the final round of fixtures.
Spain currently leads the group with four points from two matches, while Uruguay are second and Cabo Verde third, both level on two points.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is exactly why I love the World Cup - the underdogs always bring the drama! Cabo Verde's first-ever goal from a free-kick is a story for the ages. But honestly, Uruguay looked a bit off their game. Muslera at 40 is impressive, but he could've done better on that goal. Still, great match! 🏆
As someone who's followed international football for years, it's thrilling to see a small nation like Cabo Verde make history. The fact that they're the first since Senegal (2002) to go undefeated in their first two matches says a lot about their growth. But I do wonder - can they sustain this against Spain? That will be the real test.
I appreciate the achievement, but let's be real - Uruguay were poor today. Cabo Verde played smart and defended well, but they only had two shots on target in the entire game! That's not a sustainable strategy. Still, kudos to them for making history. India could learn from their defensive discipline. 🙏
The substitutes stat is fascinating - 23 goals from subs this tournament. Shows how important squad depth is. But for me, the story is the two 40+ keepers starting. That's insane longevity! Muslera and Vozinha proving age is just a number. Wish we had that kind of resilience in our cricket team! 😄
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