According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Cape Verde were given just a one percent chance of progressing from the group stage at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They defied the odds by securing a place in the Round of 32 for the first time in their history.

The island nation, with a population of around 530,000, booked their place in the knockout stage after playing out a goalless draw against Saudi Arabia in their final Group H match on June 27, 2026. The result was enough to send Cape Verde through alongside group winners Spain, while Uruguay and Saudi Arabia were eliminated.

Spain finished top of the group with seven points and a goal difference of +5. Cape Verde claimed second place with three points and a goal difference of zero, finishing ahead of Uruguay, who also ended on three points but with a goal difference of -1. Saudi Arabia finished bottom of the group with two points.

Romano shared a video on social media showing the Cape Verde players celebrating wildly in the dressing room, repeatedly chanting “1%! 1%! 1%!” in reference to the slim odds they were given before the tournament.

It is the first time Cape Verde have qualified for the knockout stage of a FIFA World Cup. Reaching the Round of 32 after being given only a one percent chance of advancing ranks among the greatest achievements in the nation’s football history.

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