The 2026 World Cup delivered one of its most unpredictable days yet, as all four fixtures on matchday five ended level. The result nobody saw coming came in Atlanta, where Cape Verde held title contenders Spain to a goalless draw, but three other tightly fought contests in Groups G and H underlined just how competitive this tournament has become.
Spain arrived as heavy favourites against a Cape Verde side making just its second World Cup appearance, and few gave the African nation a realistic chance of taking anything from the game. Ninety minutes later, La Roja were left frustrated by a disciplined defensive display anchored by 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha, whose string of saves denied Spain at every turn. Coach Luis de la Fuente introduced teenage sensation Lamine Yamal after the break in search of a breakthrough, but Cape Verde's back line refused to yield, securing a famous point. lotus teen patti
Belgium and Egypt Share the Spoils in Thriller
Elsewhere, Belgium and Egypt produced one of the day's most entertaining contests, finishing 1-1. Emam Ashour put Egypt ahead with a well-struck effort that caught Thibaut Courtois off guard, only for Romelu Lukaku's persistent pressing to force Mohamed Hany into an unfortunate own goal that restored parity for the Belgians. Both goalkeepers, Courtois and Mostafa Shoubir, were called into repeated action, while Kevin De Bruyne came agonisingly close to a late winner when his shot cannoned off the post.
Saudi Arabia Push Uruguay to the Brink
Saudi Arabia's steady rise as an Asian football power continued as they gave Uruguay a genuine scare. Abdulelah Alamri fired the Saudis ahead from a rebound, with goalkeeper Mohammed Alowais standing firm at the other end for long spells. Uruguay looked short of answers until Maxi Araujo struck in the 80th minute to salvage a 1-1 draw and avoid an upset that would have sent shockwaves through Group H.
Iran and New Zealand Share Six Goals
The day's most dramatic finish came in the clash between Iran and New Zealand, which ended 2-2. Elijah Just scored twice for the Oceania representatives, showcasing the attacking threat that has earned New Zealand widespread praise on their World Cup return. Iran twice fought back, with Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebbi cancelling out New Zealand's lead on both occasions to salvage a share of the points.
Groups G and H Wide Open
With all eight teams across Groups G and H now level on one point apiece, the tournament has produced its first four-draw day since 1958. It's a striking statistic, and one that reflects a narrowing gap between traditional powers and emerging footballing nations. With every side still very much alive, the remaining group fixtures promise to be fiercely contested.
