Cape Verde have written their name into World Cup history, becoming only the third African nation to remain unbeaten across their first two matches at a FIFA World Cup — joining Cameroon and Senegal in an exclusive club.

The Blue Sharks earned that distinction with a hard-fought 2-2 draw against two-time world champions Uruguay in their second group game at the FIFA World Cup 2026, having already held Spain — winners of the 2010 World Cup — to a goalless draw in their opening fixture.

According to Stats Foot, Cameroon achieved the feat in 1982 with two draws, while Senegal matched it in 2002 with one win and one draw. Cape Verde now stand alongside both with two draws from two outings.

Pina's stunning opener

Cape Verde broke the deadlock in the 21' when Kevin Pina curled a long-range free-kick straight through Uruguay's two-man wall and into the net — a strike of genuine quality.

Uruguay, however, hit back on the stroke of half-time. Maxi Araujo netted his second goal of the tournament in the 44' to level the score, before turning provider in six minutes of first-half stoppage time to set up Agustin Canobbio, who put Uruguay 2-1 ahead.

Varela's cool finish seals the point

Cape Verde refused to buckle and drew level again in the 61'. A wayward square pass from Mathias Olivera forced goalkeeper Fernando Muslera to rush off his line, and Helio Varela seized the moment — flicking the ball delicately over Muslera's head and into an empty net.

The point keeps Cape Verde firmly in contention in their group and cements a place in the record books alongside two of Africa's most celebrated World Cup sides.