Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia face each other this Friday, June 27, 2026, at 00:00 (Brasília time), at the NRG Stadium, in Houston, in the last round of Group H of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Blue Tubarões, in their first participation in the competition, have two draws and dream of an unprecedented qualification for the knockout stages.
The team led by Bubista has already left its mark on the tournament. After holding Spain 0-0 in their debut, the Cape Verdeans drew 2-2 with Uruguay, scoring the first goals in the country’s history in the World Cup. Kevin Pina and Hélio Varela found the net against the South Americans, showing determination and ability to react.
Saudi Arabia plays the last chance
On the other hand, Saudi Arabia is experiencing a delicate situation. With just one point from two games, the Saudis need victory to depend on other results and advance. The Asian team is looking to recover after stumbles in the group stage and has experienced names like Salem Al-Dawsari and Firas Al-Buraikan to try to break through Cape Verde’s organized defense.
Coach Bubista, a key player in Cape Verde’s historic classification, assembled a competitive team that mixes experience and youth. Goalkeeper Vozinha has been one of the highlights, with important saves that have secured valuable points so far.
Probable lineups and absences
Cape Verde (4-3-3):Voice; Steven Moreira, Roberto Lopes (Pico), Diney, Stopira (or João Paulo); Kevin Pina, Deroy Duarte (or Telmo Arcanjo), Jamiro Monteiro; Ryan Mendes, Gilson Benchimol, Garry Rodrigues.
Sidny Lopes Cabral is suspended. Telmo Arcanjo and others remain under evaluation due to physical problems, but the squad arrives motivated.
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, others; Firas Al-Buraikan, Musab Al-Juwayr.
The match takes place in an indoor stadium, without interference from the weather. A victory for Cape Verde could guarantee an unprecedented place in the round of 16, while Saudi Arabia is fighting for its survival in the tournament.
What’s at stake for African football
Cape Verde, with a population of around 525 thousand inhabitants, represents one of the smallest nations to compete in a World Cup. The campaign is already celebrated as a historic milestone in the country, exceeding expectations and inspiring a generation. The clash against Saudi Arabia could seal a feat that would go down in the African football record books.
Where to watch live:The broadcast is available on CazéTV (YouTube), SporTV/Globo (depending on the region) and streaming platforms with rights.