FIFA World Cup 2026 – Matchday 5 Results
Group H (Spain 0-0 Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia 1-1 Uruguay)
Group G (Belgium 1-1 Egypt, Iran 2-2 New Zealand)
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Monday produced another day of surprises as underdogs Cape Verde, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and New Zealand frustrated more fancied opponents to leave Groups G and H delicately poised after Matchday 5.
The biggest story of the day came in Atlanta, where tournament debutants Cape Verde announced their arrival on football’s biggest stage with a memorable goalless draw against former world champions Spain.
Despite dominating possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities, Spain were unable to break down a disciplined Cape Verde side inspired by veteran goalkeeper Vozinha.
The experienced shot-stopper produced a series of outstanding saves to deny Mikel Oyarzabal, Gavi, Ferran Torres, Pedri, Fabian Ruiz and substitute Lamine Yamal as Cape Verde secured a historic point in their first-ever FIFA World Cup match.
The result significantly boosts Cape Verde’s hopes of reaching the knockout stages from a highly competitive Group H that also features Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.
Elsewhere in Group G, Egypt claimed a valuable 1-1 draw against Belgium in Seattle.
The Pharaohs struck first through Emam Ashour in the 20th minute after captain Mohamed Salah set him up for a powerful long-range effort that beat the Belgian goalkeeper.
Belgium responded after the break and eventually found an equaliser through an unfortunate own goal by defender Mohamed Hany, who turned the ball into his own net under pressure from substitute Romelu Lukaku.
The draw leaves both nations level on one point heading into their second group matches.
Saudi Arabia also produced an impressive display to hold two-time world champions Uruguay to a 1-1 draw in Miami.
Abdulelah Al-Amri stunned the South Americans when he capitalised on a mistake by veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera to hand Saudi Arabia a first-half lead.
Uruguay pushed forward in search of an equaliser and eventually found one ten minutes from time through Maximiliano Araujo, who rescued a point for Marcelo Bielsa’s side.
In Los Angeles, Iran twice fought back to secure a thrilling 2-2 draw against New Zealand.
Elijah Just was New Zealand’s star performer, scoring both goals for the Oceania representatives, but Iran showed resilience throughout the contest.
Ramin Rezaeian cancelled out the first deficit before Mohammad Mohebi struck later in the match to ensure the points were shared.
The results leave both groups completely open after the opening round of fixtures.
Group G Standings
- Belgium – 1 point
- Egypt – 1 point
- Iran – 1 point
- New Zealand – 1 point
Group H Standings
- Spain – 1 point
- Cape Verde – 1 point
- Saudi Arabia – 1 point
- Uruguay – 1 point
Matchday 6 Fixtures
Tuesday, June 16
Group I: France vs Senegal – 10:00 PM
Wednesday, June 17
Group I: Iraq vs Norway – 1:00 AM
Group J: Argentina vs Algeria – 4:00 AM, Austria vs Jordan – 7:00 AM (all times in EAT)
Attention now shifts to Matchday 6, which features the entry of several tournament heavyweights.
France face Senegal in a highly anticipated Group I showdown at New York New Jersey Stadium. The fixture revives memories of Senegal’s famous 1-0 victory over France during the opening match of the 2002 FIFA World Cup, one of the greatest upsets in tournament history.
Both sides will be eager to start strongly, with France seeking to underline their status as title contenders while Senegal aim to demonstrate their credentials as Africa’s leading representatives.
At Boston Stadium, Iraq return to the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 1986 when they take on Norway.
The match will also mark Norway’s return to the global stage after a 28-year absence, with star striker Erling Haaland expected to make his long-awaited FIFA World Cup debut.
Defending champions Argentina begin their title defence against Algeria in Kansas City.
Led by Lionel Messi, Argentina are aiming to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup title. Algeria, however, will hope to upset the South American giants as they make their return to the tournament after missing the previous three editions.
The day’s action concludes in San Francisco where Austria take on debutants Jordan.
Austria are back at the World Cup for the first time since 1998, while Jordan continue their remarkable football journey with their maiden appearance at football’s most prestigious tournament.
With Groups G and H already producing surprises, fans will be watching closely to see whether more underdogs can upset the established powers on Matchday 6.
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