Cape Verde draws 2-2 with Uruguay in World Cup Group H

Cape Verde and Uruguay shared a 2-2 stalemate in Group H of the 2026 World Cup on Sunday, June 21, in Miami Gardens, Florida, with Kevin Pina netting the island nation’s inaugural World Cup goal and Helio Varela later equalising after coming off the bench. Kevin Pina delivered Cape Verde’s first World Cup goal from a free kick in the 21st minute, giving the island nation a 1-0 lead. Uruguay responded before halftime with Maxi Araújo and Agustin Canobbio scoring late first‑half goals minutes apart. Helio Varela entered the match minutes after the restart and struck the equaliser in the second half, his first international goal. He beat Fernando Muslera by catching the Uruguayan keeper way off his line.

Vozinha cries after Cape Verde draw with Spain

Varela celebrated by hopping into his teammates’ arms and flexing atop their shoulders. Uruguay players dropped their heads in disappointment. Cape Verde’s goalkeeper Vozinha, a 40‑year‑old breakout star after the draw with Spain, guarded the net with composure. His mother attended the match but missed the previous Spain game because she could not obtain a visa.

Vozinha’s seven saves help Cape Verde draw with Spain, costing bettor $1 million

The game marked the first World Cup match featuring two starting goalkeepers aged 40 or older. Fernando Muslera turned 40 on June 16 and made his 18th World Cup appearance. The 2-2 result leaves Cape Verde with a legitimate chance of reaching the knockout stage. Uruguay must now seek a win to stay in contention.