Uruguay vs Cape Verde Preview, Prediction and Team News | FIFA World Cup 2026

Uruguay will look to claim their first victory of the FIFA World Cup 2026 when they face tournament debutants Cape Verde in a crucial Group H encounter on Sunday.

Marcelo Bielsa's side were left frustrated in their opening fixture against Saudi Arabia, settling for a disappointing 1-1 draw after struggling to create clear-cut opportunities for much of the contest. The South American giants appeared short of attacking inspiration and only found their rhythm during the closing stages of the match.

While Uruguay remain strong favorites to progress from the group, their recent World Cup record has raised concerns among supporters. La Celeste failed to advance beyond the group stage at the 2022 World Cup and have now scored one goal or fewer in seven of their last eight matches across all competitions.

Despite their attacking struggles, Uruguay remain one of the most disciplined defensive teams in international football. They have conceded more than one goal in only one of their last eight competitive fixtures, highlighting the balance that Bielsa has tried to establish within the squad.

As two-time World Cup champions, Uruguay entered the tournament with ambitions of reaching the latter stages. A victory against Cape Verde would place them in a strong position ahead of the final round of group fixtures.

Cape Verde, meanwhile, were the surprise package of the opening matchday. The African nation earned a historic 0-0 draw against Spain, producing one of the biggest shocks in recent World Cup history.

Making their first-ever appearance at the tournament, the Blue Sharks displayed remarkable discipline and determination to frustrate one of the favorites. Veteran goalkeeper Vozinha emerged as the hero with a series of outstanding saves, helping his side secure a memorable point.

Cape Verde's defensive resilience should not come as a surprise. During qualification, they kept seven clean sheets in ten matches and demonstrated their ability to compete against stronger opponents. Prior to the World Cup, they also recorded an impressive 3-0 victory over Serbia.

However, head coach Bubista knows his side must offer more going forward. Cape Verde managed only six touches inside Spain's penalty area and will need to improve their attacking output if they are to challenge for a place in the knockout rounds.

With all four teams in Group H level on one point after the opening round of fixtures, Sunday's clash could have a major impact on the qualification race.

Team News

Uruguay are expected to retain faith in most of the players who started against Saudi Arabia. Midfielder Manuel Ugarte and striker Darwin Nunez struggled to make an impact and were substituted, but both remain key figures in Bielsa's plans.

Liverpool forward Nunez is likely to lead the attack once again and could be partnered by Agustin Canobbio, who offers greater mobility in the final third.

Defensively, Uruguay remain without Ronald Araujo, who is still recovering from injury and remains a major doubt for the encounter.

For Cape Verde, goalkeeper Vozinha will once again be central to their hopes after his heroic display against Spain. The experienced shot-stopper produced several crucial saves and will need another inspired performance against Uruguay's attacking threats.

Defenders Diney Borges and Roberto Lopes are expected to continue at the heart of the defense, while Kevin Lenini should retain his role as the midfield anchor after an excellent performance against Spain.

In attack, captain Ryan Mendes and Jovane Cabral are likely to support striker Dailon Livramento as Cape Verde seek their first-ever World Cup victory.

Key Player Battle

All eyes will be on Darwin Nunez against Cape Verde's resilient defensive unit. The Liverpool striker endured a quiet performance in the opening match and will be eager to make a statement. His movement, pace and finishing ability could prove decisive against a Cape Verde side expected to spend long periods defending.

Match Prediction

Cape Verde have already shown they are capable of frustrating stronger opponents, but Uruguay possess significantly more quality and experience throughout their squad. Bielsa's men are unlikely to be as wasteful as they were against Saudi Arabia and should eventually find a way through.

Cape Verde will make life difficult, but Uruguay's superior individual talent should be enough to secure all three points.

Prediction: Uruguay 2-0 Cape Verde