Kevin Pina’s long-range free-kick stunned Fernando Muslera and gave Cape Verde a shock first-half lead against Uruguay — a lead that eventually settled into a 2-2 draw that left the South Americans staring at World Cup elimination. The former Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez, dropped by manager Marcelo Bielsa after Uruguay’s 1-1 draw with Saudi Arabia in their Group H opener, was introduced with 20 minutes remaining but could not inspire a turnaround. One promising cross to captain Federico Valverde went unconverted from close range. Uruguay now sit second on two points, level with Cape Verde, and must take at least a point against Spain in their final group match to keep their knockout hopes alive. Watching from the stands, Uruguay icon Luis Suarez was animated throughout and crestfallen at the final whistle as his nation’s campaign teetered. Nunez, whose goal drought for Uruguay will stretch to nearly two years when they face Spain on June 27, last scored for his country on June 28, 2024, against Bolivia at the Copa America. Reports that the 26-year-old had agreed to re-sign for Liverpool after the World Cup have been dismissed by numerous outlets.
Meanwhile, in Group G, Belgium were held to a goalless draw by Iran despite playing with ten men for much of the match. Thibaut Courtois and Alireza Beiranvand took centre stage with fine saves after Nathan Ngoy’s sending off. Plenty of chances followed the red card but neither side could break the deadlock, leaving top spot in the group still up for grabs.
“Cape Verde drew 2-2 with Uruguay as Kevin Pina's free-kick stunned the South Americans; Belgium drew 0-0 with Iran despite a red card.”