Cabo Verde’s miracle endures, Messi awaits after historic World Cup progression | OneFootball

Cabo Verde reached the World Cup knockout phase after a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia in Houston, a result that was enough so long as Uruguay did not beat Spain in Guadalajara.

As reported by Superdeporte, the point capped a group campaign that began with a draw against European champions Spain and another against two-time world champions Uruguay.

Cabo Verde are the smallest nation ever to make the tournament’s knockout rounds. They are the sixth side to progress with three draws, and the first since Chile at France 1998 to advance without a win.

They have not lost either, unlike Germany, Croatia and Norway. Across the nine groups concluded, only Spain, Mexico, who have conceded 0, and Brazil, on 1, have shipped fewer goals than Cabo Verde’s two.

Goalkeeper Vozinha, 40, was outstanding in the opener against Spain, and he has been beaten only twice, both times in the Uruguay draw.

Head coach Bubista said the squad wanted to show themselves to the world, expressing pride in advancing and underlining that this small nation fights for its goals. He also noted the historic ties with Argentina through Cape Verdean migration.

Holders Argentina, led by Messi, await in Miami at midnight on Friday into Saturday. If Cabo Verde conjure another surprise, they would face the winner of Egypt v Australia in the last 16.

Source: Superdeporte