Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia face off this Friday (June 26, 2026), starting at 9 pm (Brasília time), at the NRG Stadium, in Houston, in the third round of Group H of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The game defines most of the chances of qualifying for the round of 16.
The Blue Sharks arrive with two heroic draws, 0-0 against Spain and 2-2 against Uruguay and have the same points as Uruguay. A victory practically guarantees the unprecedented place. Saudi Arabia, with just one point, needs to win and hope for any stumbles from its rivals.
Main guesses and motivations
Main guess: Vitória de Cape Verde
Bubista’s team showed defensive organization and counterattacking capabilities. With Vozinha inspired, a solid defense and attackers like Ryan Mendes and Garry Rodrigues in good form, the Cape Verdeans are slight favorites at the bookmakers. O histórico de superação nas eliminatórias e na fase de grupos reforça a confiança.
Alternative guess: Draw
If Saudi Arabia adopts a cautious stance, a new draw is possible, which would still leave Cape Verde with a good chance of advancing depending on the other results.
Do both teams score? Yes
Cape Verde has already shown that it can break through defenses (two goals against Uruguay). Saudi Arabia has quality in attack with Al-Buraikan and Al-Dawsari, which should create scoring chances for both sides.
More than 2.5 goals? Possible
Cape Verde’s games in the World Cup have had opening scores and reactions, suggesting a clash with chances of goals.
Probable lineups for the clash
Cape Verde (4-3-3):Voice; Steven Moreira, Roberto Lopes, Diney, Stopira (or João Paulo); Kevin Pina, Deroy Duarte, Jamiro Monteiro; Ryan Mendes, Gilson Benchimol, Garry Rodrigues.
Absences: Sidny Lopes Cabral suspended. Telmo Arcanjo under evaluation.
Saudi Arabia (4-4-2):Mohammed Al-Owais; Saud Abdulhamid, Abdulelah Al-Amri, Hassan Al-Tambakti, Moteb Al-Harbi; Mohamed Kanno, Abdullah Al-Khaibari, Salem Al-Dawsari; Firas Al-Buraikan, Musab Al-Juwayr (or others).
Coach Bubista, responsible for the historic classification, assembled a competitive team that has already exceeded expectations against more traditional teams.
Where to watch and scenario of Group H
The match will be broadcast on CazéTV (YouTube), SporTV/Globo and platforms with broadcasting rights.
Cape Verde, the second smallest country to compete in the World Cup, is experiencing a unique moment. A victory today would transform the campaign into a fairy tale and put Cape Verdean football on the world map definitively.
Final guess:Cape Verde 2 x 1 Saudi Arabia. The Blue Sharks continue to make history.