The Saudi Arabia national team has been knocked out of the 2026 World Cup group stage following a disappointing 0-0 draw against Cape Verde in their final group match.
Green Falcons Fail to Replicate Historic 1994 World Cup Campaign
The Green Falcons kicked off their campaign on a high note with an impressive 1-1 draw against Uruguay, but a heavy 4-0 defeat to Spain in the second round severely damaged their chances.
Heading into the final matchday, Saudi Arabia needed a victory of any margin against Cape Verde to secure a spot in the knockout rounds—a feat they haven’t achieved since their debut tournament on American soil back in 1994. However, Donis’s men failed to break the deadlock, ultimately finishing at the bottom of the group with just two points.
Cape Verde Make History as Smallest Nation in World Cup Knockouts
With this result, Cape Verde officially advanced to the Round of 32 as group runners-up, courtesy of three consecutive draws.
World Cup Record: Representing a nation with a population of fewer than 500,000 people, Cape Verde has officially become the smallest country by population to ever reach the knockout stages in FIFA World Cup history.
Making their debut appearance in the global tournament, Bubista’s side defied all expectations to secure a historic qualification. Cape Verde is now set to face Argentina in the Round of 32, setting up a monumental clash against Lionel Messi and his teammates.
