Cape Verde reach last 16 as Uruguay crash out on dramatic night | OneFootball

The World Cup last 16 took shape overnight as six nations qualified, surprise packages Cape Verde among them, while Uruguay’s campaign ended early.

France beat Norway 4-1 to open the night, then Spain edged Uruguay 1-0, a result that sent Marcelo Bielsa’s side home. According to L'Équipe, the coach was incensed by his team’s showing.

Elsewhere, Cape Verde drew 0-0 with Saudi Arabia to clinch progression. Belgium eased past New Zealand 5-1 to top their group after a slow start. Egypt drew 1-1 with Iran, with Mohamed Salah’s fitness needing monitoring after a scare during the game.

Iran thought they had won it at 90+3 through Shoja Khalilzadeh, but VAR ruled the goal out for a marginal offside. Team Melli finished third and must wait to see if they rank among the eight best third-placed sides, which remains possible.

Cape Verde’s players learned of qualification on the pitch, gathering around phones to watch the final moments of Egypt against Iran, then celebrating at the final whistle.

Cape Verde coach Bubista said his team have shown how smaller nations can achieve big targets through focus, determination and organisation. He added they are proud to face Argentina next and intend to stay true to their identity, noting long-standing ties between the countries.

France will meet Sweden in New York on Tuesday at 23:00. The sides have never met at a World Cup, and France are unbeaten in seven meetings, with five wins and two draws, the last a 4-2 Nations League victory.

Source: L'Équipe