Cape Verde, appearing at their first FIFA World Cup, finished second in Group H after remaining unbeaten and ranking above Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. The Blue Sharks drew all three matches and secured a place in the round of 32, where they will face defending champions Argentina on 3 July at Miami Stadium.
Democratic Republic of Congo returned to the tournament more than five decades after their sole previous appearance in 1974, competing as Zaire. Winning a play‑off against Jamaica, they topped their group as one of the eight best third‑placed teams, earning a knockout tie against England.
Former Bulgaria striker Hristo Stoichkov hailed Cape Verde’s journey as “a fairy tale”, praising the team’s organisation, discipline and calm under pressure. “What they’ve done is phenomenal,” he said. “They’re an organised, disciplined team.”
Ex‑Uruguay forward Diego Forlan noted that Cape Verde, as newcomers, play with freedom and without the burden of expectation. “They have nothing to lose,” he commented, highlighting the team’s experience, physical strength and goalkeeper Vozinha’s solid performances.
Both nations illustrate how the expanded World Cup format can elevate African football, inspiring smaller footballing nations and demonstrating that increased representation can yield competitive, compelling storylines at the highest level.
Cape Verde now faces Argentina, while DR Congo meets England, in what promises to be a testing phase for both sides.
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