Cape Verde scripted history by reaching the FIFA World Cup knockout stage on their tournament debut after a goalless draw against Saudi Arabia secured second place in Group H and a last-32 clash with defending champions Argentina.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Blue Sharks secured the second spot in the group with three points, one clear of two-time winners Uruguay and 2034 World Cup hosts Saudi Arabia, to cap a memorable group stage run which they completed undefeated. They now play the star-studded Argentine side of Lionel Messi at Miami Stadium on Thursday, 3 July in what should be the most important match in their country's football history. Cape Verde appeared to be the more threatening team, coming closest to opening the scoring.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Willy Semedo forced Saudi Arabia goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais into a brilliant early save, just from the nearest post, before shooting just past the other goal with another attempt.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Blue Sharks secured the second spot in the group with three points, one clear of two-time winners Uruguay and 2034 World Cup hosts Saudi Arabia, to cap a memorable group stage run which they completed undefeated. They now play the star-studded Argentine side of Lionel Messi at Miami Stadium on Thursday, 3 July in what should be the most important match in their country's football history. Cape Verde appeared to be the more threatening team, coming closest to opening the scoring.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Having made history in group games they now also became the third African nation ever to reach round of 32 unbeaten on their World Cup debut, what an extremely well deserved fairytale first appearance at football’s most prestigious stage.<\/p>\r\n\r\n