World Cup debutants Cape Verde stun Uruguay with historic first goal in 2-2 draw, while Egypt ends 92-year wait for victory
Cape Verde, a nation of half a million, scored its first ever World Cup goal and held Uruguay to a 2-2 draw in Miami, while Egypt beat New Zealand 3-1 for its first tournament win since 1934.
Historic first for Cape Verde
Cape Verde, population around 530,000, took the lead in the 21st minute through Kevin Pina's free-kick, the country's first ever World Cup goal. The midfielder's low, powerful strike beat Fernando Muslera and sparked celebrations among the small contingent of fans in Miami. According to statistics, no team since 1966 had scored its first World Cup goal directly from a free-kick.
Uruguay rallies before the break
Uruguay, two-time world champions, responded before half-time. Maximiliano Araujo equalised in the 44th minute, pouncing on a rebound after a shot hit the post. Then, deep into stoppage time, Araujo turned provider, heading across goal for Agustin Canobbio to tap in from close range. Uruguay led 2-1 at the interval.
Muslera's costly mistake
The decisive moment came in the 61st minute. Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera, 40, rushed out of his area to deal with a misplaced pass by Mathias Olivera, but was beaten to the ball by substitute Helio Varela, who rolled it into an empty net. The error cost Uruguay two points and overshadowed Muslera's two personal records: he became the Uruguayan with the most World Cup appearances (18) and the oldest to play at the tournament.
We wanted to compete at the highest level and that's what we did in these two matches. We are trying to fulfil another dream, which is to reach the knockout stage. I think we have every right to think that way.
Without a doubt Uruguay has a better squad than Cape Verde, but you have to prove it on the pitch. Even taking into account the goals we conceded, we should have won.
Egypt ends 92-year wait
In Group G, Egypt beat New Zealand 3-1 to record their first World Cup victory. The Pharaohs, appearing in their fourth finals, had not won a match since their debut in 1930. Captain Mohamed Salah played a key role as Egypt came from behind to lead the group with four points.
Group implications
Cape Verde remain unbeaten after two matches, having also held Spain to a goalless draw. They sit on two points in Group H, level with Uruguay and two behind Spain, who thrashed Saudi Arabia 4-0. Uruguay must beat Spain in their final group game to guarantee progression. Cape Verde face Saudi Arabia, still with a chance of a historic knockout-stage berth.
