The most thrilling end of the 2026 World Cup group stage comes in Group H, with Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia both looking to achieve an historic feat as all four teams still have chances of reaching the next round.
In this edition, there hasn’t been a more surprising team than Cape Verde, who were solid enough to keep a clean sheet against a top side like Spain before drawing 2-2 with another strong team like Uruguay.
Saudi Arabia also had a strong start when they rescued a point against Uruguay. Even if they lost 4-0 to Spain, they are still in the race for a place in the next round. Whoever wins this tense match will secure qualification.
Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia lineup
For this match, Pedro Brito could use this lineup for Cape Verde: Vozinha, Steven Moreira, Roberto Lopes, Edilson Borges, João Paulo, Deroy Duarte, Kevin Pina, Jamiro Monteiro, Ryan Mendes, Gilson Benchimol and Garry Rodrigues.
Manager Georgios Donis may use this lineup for Saudi Arabia: Mohammed Al-Owais, Saud Abdulhamid, Ali Lajami, Hassan Al-Tambakti, Abdulelah Al-Amri, Moteb Al-Harbi, Mohammed Abu Al-Shamat, Mohamed Kanno, Nasser Al-Dawsari, Salem Al-Dawsari and Feras Al-Buraikan.
see also
How Cape Verde’s win, draw, or loss vs Saudi Arabia could impact the 2026 World Cup Group H standings
Possible next matches
Even if Group H is not yet decided, the possible rivals are already known. This group crosses paths with Group J, where Argentina could face the runner-up, while Austria or Algeria could meet the group winner.
