Cape Verde wrote their name into World Cup history on Sunday night after scoring their first-ever goal at the tournament in a pulsating 2-2 draw with Uruguay in their second Group H match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Hard Rock Stadium.The encounter delivered end-to-end drama as both sides pushed relentlessly for maximum points in a fiercely contested battle.Uruguay were first to threaten in the 14th minute when Federico Valverde found space inside the box and shaped up for a promising strike, only to send his effort narrowly wide of the right post after a slight mis-hit, wasting what was a golden opportunity.Cape Verde responded in spectacular fashion in the 21st minute when Kevin Lenini unleashed a stunning long-range free-kick.His powerful effort curled beautifully into the bottom right corner, leaving the goalkeeper helpless and marking a historic moment as Cape Verdes first-ever World Cup goal, giving them a 0-1 lead.
Cabo Verde score their first-ever #FIFAWorldCup goal! pic.twitter.com/N4QVl95YDr
FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 21, 2026Uruguay, however, fought their way back into the contest. In the 44th minute, Maximiliano Arajo reacted quickest to a rebound inside the goalmouth and headed home to level matters.The pressure continued deep into first-half stoppage time, and in the 45+6th minute, Arajo was again involved as he headed a cross across goal for Agustn Canobbio to poke home, turning the game around to 2-1 before the break.Cape Verde showed resilience after the restart and were rewarded in the 61st minute when Hlder Varela capitalised on a costly goalkeeper error.With the ball falling kindly after the keeper slipped, Varela calmly slotted home from mid-range to restore parity at 2-2.Uruguay thought they had regained the lead in the 68th minute, but their goal was ruled out for offside, denying them what would have been a crucial advantage.The closing stages were packed with tension. In the 90th minute, Federico Valverde came close again with a powerful free-kick effort that sailed just over the bar.Deep into stoppage time, Agustn Canobbio broke through the defence and found space in front of goal, but his effort flew over the crossbar, sealing a dramatic draw.Both sides were left to settle for a point after a thrilling encounter that showcased Cape Verdes historic milestone and Uruguays missed opportunities.
Cabo Verde score their first-ever #FIFAWorldCup goal! pic.twitter.com/N4QVl95YDr
FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 21, 2026Cape Verde will now aim to win against Saudi Arabia in their final group match for a place in the Round of 32.