Cape Verde Draw 2-2 with Uruguay, Score First World Cup Goal in History

On June 22, in the second round of Group H at the 2026 World Cup, Cape Verde drew 2-2 with Uruguay, scoring their first-ever World Cup goal.

On June 22, 2026, in a Group H match of the FIFA World Cup, African debutants Cape Verde faced South American powerhouse Uruguay. The match ended in a 2-2 draw, with Cape Verde earning their first World Cup point and scoring their first goal in the tournament, making history. Uruguay started strongly, with veteran Luis Suárez threatening the Cape Verde goal. In the 15th minute, Federico Valverde scored a long-range effort to give Uruguay a 1-0 lead. However, Cape Verde responded well and increased their attacking pressure. In the 32nd minute, Cape Verde won a free kick. Captain Ryan Mendes stepped up and curled the ball over the wall and into the top corner, leaving Uruguay goalkeeper Sergio Rochet with no chance. The goal made it 1-1 and marked Cape Verde's first ever World Cup goal, sparking wild celebrations. In the second half, Uruguay made changes, bringing on Darwin Núñez to boost the attack. In the 58th minute, Núñez was fouled in the box, and Suárez converted the penalty to make it 2-1. But Cape Verde showed great resilience. In the 75th minute, substitute forward Jamiro Rodrigues scored from a scramble in the box to level the match at 2-2. Both teams had chances late on, but neither could find a winner. The final score remained 2-2, giving Cape Verde a historic point. The result is a huge milestone for the small African nation, as they not only scored their first goal but also earned their first point in World Cup history. Statistically, Uruguay dominated possession with 65% and had 18 shots to Cape Verde's 8, but Cape Verde's efficient counter-attacks and solid defense, led by goalkeeper Vozinha who made several key saves, secured the draw. After this match, Group H remains wide open. Uruguay has two points, while Cape Verde has one. Both teams still have a chance to advance. In the next round, Cape Verde will face another group opponent, and a win could see them achieve an even greater miracle.

Cape Verde Draw 2-2 with Uruguay, Score First World Cup Goal in History

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