7M - FIFA World Cup 2026 Preview: Uruguay vs Cape Verde - prediction, team news, lineups

Group H of the FIFA World Cup 2026 returns to action this weekend as Uruguay face off against Cape Verde at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida. With all four teams tied on points after an unpredictable opening round, this clash carries immense significance for both nations as they look to assert dominance in a tightly contested section.

Match Preview

Uruguay entered the tournament as strong favorites to progress from Group H, but Marcelo Bielsa's side received a reality check in their tournament opener. Despite commanding 65 percent possession and registering a staggering 25 shots to 7 against Saudi Arabia, La Celeste were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw. The South American giants fell behind to an Abdulelah Al-Amri strike late in the first half following a corner, uncovering vulnerabilities in their set-piece defense. It took a persistent second-half siege and an 80th-minute rebound goal from Maximiliano Araujo to eventually rescue a point, following Federico Vinas' initial header. Bielsa will be acutely aware that his squad must find a sharper clinical edge if they are to capitalize on their statistical superiority and alleviate the pressure heading into their final group fixture against Spain.

Cape Verde, meanwhile, produced a highly disciplined defensive display to secure a commendable 0-0 draw against European powerhouses Spain in their first match at Atlanta Stadium. Bubista's men were content to sit deep and absorb sustained pressure, frustrating La Roja's formidable attacking line. Led by experienced goalkeeper Vozinha and a resilient backline featuring Roberto Lopes and Diney, the Blue Sharks proved incredibly difficult to break down. While their offensive output was limited, Cape Verde's tactical rigidity earned them a invaluable point, blowing the group wide open. However, dealing with another elite attack in Uruguay represents a grueling physical challenge, especially with a decisive final group game against Saudi Arabia looming on the horizon.

Team News

Uruguay boss Marcelo Bielsa might contemplate tactical adjustments after replacing starting striker Darwin Nunez with Agustin Canobbio at half-time against Saudi Arabia. Federico Vinas could retain his spot in the frontline alongside Maximiliano Araujo after their fruitful combination in the equalizer. Midfield maestro Federico Valverde and Nicolas de la Cruz, who provided vital energy off the bench last game, are expected to anchor the center of the pitch.

For Cape Verde, head coach Bubista is highly likely to stick with the identical starting eleven that successfully neutralized Spain. Forward Dailon Livramento and veteran Ryan Mendes will spearhead the counter-attacking transitions, while Kevin Pina and Laros Duarte will provide defensive cover in front of the back four. Left-back Sidny Lopes Cabral, who picked up a caution in the previous match, remains available to start.

Uruguay possible starting lineup:
Muslera; Varela, Caceres, M. Olivera, Vina; Valverde, Ugarte, Bentancur, De la Cruz; Araujo, Vinas

Cape Verde possible starting lineup:
Vozinha; Moreira, Diney, Lopes, Cabral; Pina, L. Duarte; Mendes, Monteiro, J. Cabral; Livramento

Prediction: Uruguay 2-0 Cape Verde

Uruguay boast superior attacking depth and will undoubtedly dominate possession, but they must find a way past Cape Verde's stubborn defensive wall. Given La Celeste's desperate need for three points before facing Spain, we expect Marcelo Bielsa's men to eventually wear down the African nation and secure a hard-fought victory.