Cape Verde has extended their fairytale debut World Cup campaign by advancing to the knockout rounds for the first time. The tiny Atlantic archipelago drew 0-0 with Saudi Arabia to clinch second place in Group H, setting up a dream showdown with defending champions Argentina at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium on July 3. France, meanwhile, continued their impressive form with a 4-1 victory over Norway, securing top spot in Group I and a last 32 clash with Sweden.
Cape Verde's Historic Achievement
Cape Verde's progression to the knockout rounds marks a historic achievement for the nation. Their third consecutive draw in the group stage saw them finish with three points, behind European champions Spain who topped the group with a 1-0 win over Uruguay. Uruguay, who were stunned by Cape Verde in a 2-2 draw last Sunday, were eliminated with just two points.
Cape Verde coach Bubista expressed his pride and determination, stating, 'To us, nothing is impossible.' His team's remarkable journey has captivated fans worldwide, and they now face the daunting task of taking on Lionel Messi's Argentina.
France's Dominant Display
France delivered another dazzling performance, swatting aside Norway 4-1 to clinch top spot in Group I. Reigning Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele was the star of the show, scoring a first-half hat-trick to set up the win. Dembele's PSG teammate Desire Doue added a fourth in stoppage time.
The much-anticipated duel between France striker Kylian Mbappe and Norwegian counterpart Erling Haaland never materialized, as Norway opted to leave Haaland on the bench. Dembele later downplayed the significance of his hat-trick, focusing instead on the challenges ahead in the knockout rounds.
Other Key Developments
Spain's win over Uruguay came at a cost, with Yeremy Pino facing a potentially tournament-ending shoulder injury and Nico Williams suffering a muscle problem. The Group H results ensured that England, Portugal, Ghana, Egypt, and Paraguay would also advance. Senegal forced their way into the last 32 with a 5-0 drubbing of Iraq, while Iran's rollercoaster journey continued with a 1-1 draw against Egypt in Group G.
