Kevin Lenini scores Cape Verde’s first World Cup goal with stunning free-kick

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·22 June 2026

Kevin Lenini scores Cape Verde’s first World Cup goal with stunning free-kick

Kevin Lenini delivered Cape Verde’s first ever World Cup goal with a superb direct free-kick against Uruguay at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida, yet Uruguay hit back to lead at half-time.

As reported by L'Équipe, this is Cape Verde’s first World Cup, staged in North America. They began with a 0-0 draw against Spain on 15 June.

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The set piece was won by Telmo Arcanjo, with Rodrigo Bentancur booked, and the defensive midfielder drove a powerful right-footed effort from beyond 30 metres that skidded in low.

It was also the first goal Uruguay have conceded from a direct free-kick in their World Cup history.

Maxi Araujo equalised on 44 minutes, then Augustin Canobbio scored in the sixth minute of first-half stoppage time, leaving Cape Verde behind at the break.

Source: L'Équipe