World Cup 2026: Pico Lopes and Cape Verde advance, as ‘keeper’s error knocks out Uruguay

Roberto ‘Pico’ Lopes, captain of Shamrock Rovers, has achieved a significant World Cup milestone as Cape Verde secured a knockout stage berth. The Dublin-born defender played a crucial role in Cape Verde's 0-0 draw against Saudi Arabia, which was enough to see them finish second in Group H and advance.

Cape Verde's qualification was aided by Spain's 1-0 victory over Uruguay. The tournament saw one of its biggest disappointments in Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay, who were dumped out after a lackluster performance. A tame shot from Spain's Álex Baena, which veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera failed to save, sealed Uruguay's fate.

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have you played in goal before?

Elsewhere, France dominated Norway with a 4-1 win, thanks to a hat-trick from Ousmane Dembélé. Norway, having benched key players like Erling Haaland, will now face Cote d’Ivoire. Belgium also had a strong showing, defeating New Zealand 5-1 to top Group G, with Leandro Trossard scoring twice.

Senegal put together a series of impressive goals in their 5-0 victory over Iraq, positioning themselves well for the knockouts. Iran faced a frustrating exit, having a late injury-time winner disallowed by VAR, missed a penalty, and hit the woodwork twice against Egypt, who secured second place in Group G.

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You could take your pick from Senegal’s last three goals, but Pape Gueye’s second of the game stood out for the sheer power on the strike.