Cape Verde’s stunning World Cup debut has already eclipsed a Mexico milestone

Cape Verde’s remarkable start to the 2026 World Cup has earned the African nation a place in tournament history. Following Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Uruguay, the Blue Sharks surpassed a benchmark that took Mexico decades to achieve.

In just two World Cup games, Cape Verde has already collected two points, drawing 0-0 with Spain before holding Uruguay in an entertaining four-goal contest. It is an impressive return for a nation making its first appearance on soccer’s biggest stage.

The achievement becomes even more striking when compared with Mexico’s early World Cup history. El Tri earned its first point at a World Cup in Sweden 1958, drawing with Wales during the country’s fourth tournament appearance after opening its World Cup journey with nine consecutive defeats.

Mexico had to wait until the 1962 World Cup in Chile for its first victory, defeating Czechoslovakia 3-1. Even then, the national team was unable to collect points in more than one game at a single tournament until hosting the World Cup in 1970.

That breakthrough finally arrived on home soil. Mexico drew with the Soviet Union before defeating El Salvador and Belgium, marking the first World Cup in which El Tri earned points in multiple matches.

Cape Verde has now reached that milestone in its debut tournament. By taking points from both Spain and Uruguay, the island nation has required just one World Cup appearance to achieve something Mexico did not accomplish until its sixth participation.

The story may not be finished yet. Cape Verde closes its group-stage campaign against Saudi Arabia with a chance to claim its first-ever World Cup victory. Even a draw would be enough for the Africans to finish the group stage unbeaten, another feat that Mexico did not manage until the 1970 tournament.

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.