Cape Verde Holds Uruguay in World Cup

Cape Verde secured a 2-2 draw against Uruguay in a Group H World Cup match at Miami Stadium on June 21, 2026, significantly complicating the South American side's path to the knockout stage. The result marks the second consecutive stalemate for two-time champions Uruguay, who now face a must-win scenario against Spain to avoid an early tournament exit.

Cape Verde took an early lead in the 21st minute through a Kevin Pina free-kick. Uruguay responded with goals from Maxi Araujo and Agustin Canobbio in first-half stoppage time to enter the break with a 2-1 advantage. The momentum shifted in the 61st minute when a defensive error by Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera allowed Helio Varela to equalize for the tournament debutants.

The draw leaves Cape Verde with two points from two matches, positioning them to contend for a last-32 berth in their final group game against Saudi Arabia. Conversely, Uruguay’s inability to secure a victory against lower-ranked opposition places the team in immediate danger of a second consecutive group-stage elimination.