Cape Verde made history on June 26, 2026, by qualifying for the round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup for the first time. The team defeated Iran 2-0 in their final group stage match, securing second place in Group B behind England.
The victory was sealed with goals from forward Jamiro Monteiro in the 34th minute and substitute Willy Semedo in the 78th minute. Cape Verde finished the group stage with four points, following a 1-1 draw with Wales and a 2-0 loss to England.
This achievement marks a major milestone for the small island nation, which has a population of about 550,000. Cape Verde will face the winner of Group A in the round of 16, scheduled for June 30, 2026.
