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Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia predictions: Blue Sharks can make history

Published:
authorNick Pulford
Bubista's Cape Verde have won plenty of plaudits already but they look capable of continuing their fairy tale at the World Cup
Bubista's Cape Verde have won plenty of plaudits already but they look capable of continuing their fairy tale at the World Cup
  • Cape Verde have scored at least twice in four of their last six games

  • Saudi Arabia have had just three attempts at goal inside the penalty area in this World Cup

  • Recommended bet: Cape Verde to win

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Cape Verde have been a revelation on their World Cup debut, drawing both games in Group H so far, and will progress to the knockout stage if they win this final match. A draw might also put them through in second place depending on the Uruguay vs Spain result.

Saudi Arabia need to win to have at least a third-place route. Three points will put them second in the group if Uruguay fail to win against Spain.

Cape Verde’s gritty goalless draw against Spain in their opening match turned goalkeeper Vozinha into an instant cult hero, but there was a surprise for those expecting another backs-to-the-wall performance against Uruguay.

The Blue Sharks showed much more attacking intent in their second match, going blow for blow with Uruguay in an exciting 2-2 draw.

Saudi Arabia also went close to beating Uruguay, being pegged back late for a 1-1 draw. They were no match for Spain, however, and lost 4-0 after being blown away by three early goals.

The latest Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia odds are available on LiveScore Bet.

Team news

Cape Verde attacker Helio Varela could get a first start in the tournament following his goal-scoring introduction in the second half against Uruguay. 

Midfielders Mohamed Kanno and Mohammed Abu Al Shamat, both used as substitutes in the last match, could return to the Saudi Arabia starting line-up.

The latest Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia odds are available on LiveScore Bet.

The stats

Cape Verde have lost just one out of 15 since the start of 2025.

They have drawn their last four against teams that are at this World Cup.

Cape Verde have had 18 attempts at goal in this World Cup.

Saudi Arabia have had 10 attempts at goal.

Both teams have had three yellow cards in their two games.

The latest Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia odds are available on LiveScore Bet.

Prediction

Cape Verde have delivered two eye-opening performances, firstly by shutting out Spain and then by changing tack and going toe to toe with Uruguay.

Everyone is still learning about the Blue Sharks but the Uruguay game is likely to be the template for how they will approach this match.

What impressed most in that end-to-end thriller was the daring and speed shown by Cape Verde in their attempts to carve out opportunities.

Having given Uruguay’s high-quality and experienced team a real scare, they have a great chance to advance to the last 32 with a historic first win at the World Cup.

Saudi Arabia have also acquitted themselves well, certainly in their draw with Uruguay, but they could struggle to match the verve of their opponents if Cape Verde are just as bold again.

Back Cape Verde to win at 27/20 with LiveScore Bet.

Score prediction: Cape Verde 1-0 Saudi Arabia


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Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia predictions: Blue Sharks can make history