Cape Verde continue World Cup fairytale as Egypt claim historic first victory

Cape Verde's remarkable FIFA World Cup 2026 adventure continued on Sunday as the tiny island nation fought back to earn a 2-2 draw against two-time world champions Uruguay, while Mohamed Salah inspired Egypt to a historic 3-1 victory over New Zealand. The results left both African nations firmly in contention for a place in the knockout stages as the group phase entered a decisive period. Just days after shocking tournament favourites Spain, Cape Verde once again defied the odds, coming from behind twice to secure a memorable draw against Uruguay in Group H. The result further strengthened the reputation of one of the tournament's surprise packages and moved the debutants closer to an unlikely place in the Round of 32. Uruguay, winners of the World Cup in 1930 and 1950, were expected to overpower the African newcomers but found themselves frustrated by a disciplined and fearless Cape Verde side. The island nation made history when Kevin Pina scored their first-ever World Cup goal, curling a superb free-kick beyond the Uruguayan goalkeeper to ignite celebrations among their travelling supporters. Uruguay responded and looked poised to claim victory after twice taking the lead, but Cape Verde refused to surrender. With the South Americans pushing for all three points, Helio Varela emerged as the hero, scoring a crucial equaliser to secure another famous result and maintain Cape Verde's unbeaten start to the tournament. The draw leaves Cape Verde on two points in Group H, level with Uruguay, and gives them a realistic chance of advancing to the knockout stages with one group match remaining. This is something we owe to other smaller national teams — teams that struggled to qualify for a world tournament, Cape Verde coach Pedro Leitão Brito said through an interpreter. The coach added that his players fully believe they can continue their historic run and reach the knockout phase. Cape Verde will now turn their attention to a decisive final group match against Saudi Arabia, knowing victory could secure one of the biggest achievements in the country's sporting history. Salah inspires Egypt to first-ever World Cup victory Elsewhere, Mohamed Salah rolled back the years with a dazzling second-half performance as Egypt came from behind to defeat New Zealand 3-1 and register their first-ever World Cup victory. The Pharaohs had been held to a 1-1 draw by Belgium in their opening match and appeared headed for disappointment when they trailed at halftime. New Zealand executed their game plan effectively during the opening 45 minutes, combining direct play with disciplined possession football. Their reward came from a set piece when defender Finn Surman lost his marker Ahmed Fatouh and powered a header into the net from a corner to give the All Whites a deserved lead. Egypt struggled to create clear opportunities before the break, but the match changed dramatically after halftime as Salah took control. Salah produced an inspirational display, driving his team forward and helping ignite a stunning turnaround. Egypt's attack suddenly came alive, overwhelming the New Zealand defence with pace, movement and creativity. Three second-half goals completed the comeback and secured a landmark victory for the North Africans. The victory moved Egypt to the top of Group G with four points from two matches, significantly boosting their chances of progressing to the knockout rounds. New Zealand, meanwhile, remain bottom of the group with one point after following up their opening 2-2 draw against Iran with defeat. Belgium and Iran sit on two points each after playing out a goalless draw earlier in the day. With one round of group matches remaining, Egypt are now in pole position to qualify, while Cape Verde's dream debut campaign continues to capture the imagination of football fans around the world. For two nations seeking to make history on football's biggest stage, Sunday proved another memorable chapter in an already unforgettable World Cup.