By Desmond Nleya
HOUSTON, USA – World Cup debutants Cape Verde have booked a historic place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 after battling Saudi Arabia to a goalless draw, setting up a blockbuster knockout clash against defending champions Argentina.
The result, coupled with Spain’s 1-0 victory over Uruguay on Friday, saw Cape Verde finish second in Group H with three points after drawing all three of their group matches.
The island nation, ranked 67th in the world before the tournament, remains unbeaten after holding European champions Spain to a 0-0 draw, earning a 2-2 result against Uruguay, and securing another point against Saudi Arabia.
Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, 40, once again played a crucial role as his side held firm under pressure, while Jamiro Monteiro and Laros Duarte came closest to finding a winning goal in the second half.
Saudi Arabia, needing victory to progress, struggled to create clear-cut chances and also lost experienced defender Hassan Al-Tambakti to injury before halftime.
Cape Verde will now face Lionel Messi’s Argentina in the Round of 32 in Miami on July 3, continuing one of the tournament’s most remarkable stories. Spain topped Group H with seven points and also advanced to the knockout stage.
