Cape Verde continued their remarkable FIFA World Cup debut with a 2-2 draw against Uruguay on Sunday, moving a step closer to a place in the knockout stage and strengthening their status as one of the tournament’s biggest stories.
After stunning Spain with a draw in their opening match, the Blue Sharks followed it up with another impressive result against two-time world champions Uruguay in Group H.
The island nation, ranked 63rd in the world and with a population of fewer than 525,000, matched their more established opponents throughout the contest and left the field with a second successive draw.
From the opening whistle, Cape Verde showed intent, pushing forward and taking the game to Uruguay rather than sitting back in defence.
Their positive approach was rewarded when Kevin Pina scored a memorable free-kick from 30 yards. Uruguay’s defensive wall parted as it jumped, allowing his effort to travel through the middle and beat goalkeeper Fernando Muslera.
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The goal sparked celebrations among Cape Verde supporters both in the stadium and back home in the capital, Praia.
Uruguay responded, but Cape Verde remained composed and continued to create opportunities.
Cape Verde’s second goal came through Helio Varela, who capitalised on a defensive mistake before showing composure to take the ball past Muslera and finish into an empty net.
The goal ensured the debutants remained level in a match that continued to swing from one end to the other.
While goalkeeper Vozinha had played a decisive role in the draw against Spain, Cape Verde’s defensive organisation ensured he was not called upon as frequently against Uruguay, who managed only two shots on target.
The 40-year-old keeper’s mother, who was unable to attend the match against Spain because of visa costs, was present in Miami to witness another landmark moment for her country’s national team.
Cape Verde entered the tournament as outsiders and were widely expected to struggle against more experienced opposition. Instead, they have earned draws against Spain and Uruguay in their first two World Cup matches.
The draw leaves Cape Verde third in Group H, level on two points with Uruguay.
With the expanded World Cup format allowing eight of the 12 best third-placed teams to advance to the last 32, the Blue Sharks remain firmly in contention to progress.
Their final group-stage match comes against Saudi Arabia, who drew with Uruguay but lost heavily to Spain.
