Two-time FIFA World Cup winners Uruguay take on tournament newcomers Cape Verde in Miami, with both sides looking to strengthen their position in an increasingly competitive Group H.

The opening round of fixtures produced plenty of surprises, leaving the race for qualification wide open. Uruguay were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia, while Cape Verde captured the imagination of football fans worldwide by holding European champions Spain to a remarkable goalless draw.

Uruguay rescued a point late in their opener after a frustrating first-half display. Marcelo Bielsa’s side improved significantly after the interval and eventually found the equaliser their dominance deserved. However, the result did little to quieten speculation surrounding the relationship between the veteran coach and parts of his squad, with Bielsa having previously described himself as “toxic” following a heavy defeat to the United States last year.

Despite their mixed start, Uruguay’s World Cup pedigree remains impressive. The South Americans have lost just one of their last nine World Cup group-stage matches (W6, D2) and will be determined to avoid a repeat of their disappointing group-stage exit in Qatar 2022.

Cape Verde, meanwhile, continue to write one of the stories of the tournament. Making their World Cup debut, the Blue Sharks stunned observers with a disciplined and courageous performance against Spain. Not only did they secure a valuable point, but they also created opportunities to claim an historic victory.

Bubista’s side arrive full of confidence, having extended their unbeaten run to four matches (W3, D1). Even more impressively, they have kept clean sheets in each of their last three outings, demonstrating the defensive organisation that has become their trademark.

This will be the first meeting between the two nations. History favours Uruguay against African opposition, with La Celeste unbeaten in five previous World Cup encounters against teams from the continent (W4, D1).

Defensive strength could once again be a key factor. Only four of Uruguay’s last 13 matches have seen both teams score, while their previous eight World Cup group-stage fixtures have averaged just 1.5 goals per game. Similarly, only three of Cape Verde’s last 14 competitive matches have featured goals for both sides.

Maximiliano Araújo could prove decisive for Uruguay after scoring the equaliser against Saudi Arabia. Three of his four international goals have arrived in or after the 77th minute, highlighting his ability to influence matches late on.

For Cape Verde, goalkeeper Vozinha was the hero against Spain, producing seven saves and earning the Player of the Match award. Another standout performance from the experienced shot-stopper may be required if the Blue Sharks are to frustrate Uruguay.

Uruguay are expected to remain without Barcelona defender Ronald Araújo and Flamengo midfielder Giorgian De Arrascaeta, while Cape Verde will assess winger Jovane Cabral after he was forced off during the draw with Spain.

Prediction

Cape Verde’s inspiring start has earned widespread admiration, but Uruguay possess significantly greater quality and experience at this level. With the South Americans traditionally difficult to break down and Cape Verde likely to adopt a cautious approach, a Uruguay victory without conceding appears the most likely outcome.

Prediction: Uruguay 2-0 Cape Verde