MINDELO, Cape Verde (Interstat) — Cape Verde Islands face Saudi Arabia on Friday in a World Cup qualifier, with the Interstat game simulator projecting a 2-0 victory for the home side.

The match kicks off at 7 p.m. local time at Estádio Nacional de Cabo Verde. It is the first meeting between the nations.

Saudi Arabia arrives after a 4-0 loss to Spain on Sunday in Alicante. The result continued a difficult stretch for the visiting team, which played to a 1-1 draw with Uruguay on June 15. In that match, Saudi Arabia took a first-half lead before Uruguay equalized in the 73rd minute.

Cape Verde enters Friday’s qualifier on a four-match unbeaten run. The Blue Sharks played to a 2-2 draw with Uruguay on Sunday in Montevideo, rallying from a two-goal deficit. Forward Jovane Cabral scored in the 58th minute and Ryan Mendes equalized in the 81st.

That result followed a 0-0 draw with Spain on June 15. Cape Verde’s defense has been formidable, recording clean sheets in three of its past five matches.

Earlier this season, Cape Verde posted wins over Cameroon (1-0 on Sept. 9, 2025) and Mauritius (2-0 on Sept. 4, 2025).

The two teams sit in a competitive group. Cape Verde’s recent form, particularly its resilience against top-tier opponents, gives it an edge at home.

Saudi Arabia’s attack has struggled. The Green Falcons managed one goal in their past two matches against Spain and Uruguay. Midfielder Salem Al-Dawsari is expected to be a key playmaker.

Both sides will face pressure to secure points in the qualifiers. A win for Cape Verde would strengthen its bid for a first World Cup appearance. Saudi Arabia, seeking to rebound from the Spain loss, needs a result to stay in contention.

The simulator’s projection of a 2-0 Cape Verde win reflects home advantage and recent defensive stability. Kickoff is Friday at 7 p.m.