FIFA Series 2026: Cape Verde crowned after shootout win over Finland

World Cup 2026 30 March 2026 at 07:14

Aliou Toundé

News Editor

Cape Verde clinched victory against Finland in a dramatic penalty shootout (4-2) after a 1-1 draw in regulation time. The match unfolded on Monday, March 30, 2026, at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand, as part of the FIFA Series 2026.

Finland took the lead just before halftime thanks to Naatan Skyttä (45’+4). But Cape Verde fought back in the second half, with Kelvin Pires leveling the score in the 67th minute. With the teams deadlocked at the final whistle, the contest was decided from the penalty spot.

More clinical from the spot, the Cape Verdeans sealed a 4-2 win. With this triumph, Cape Verde capture the FIFA Series 2026 title, underlining the impressive momentum of the Blue Sharks, who have already secured a historic first-ever qualification for the 2026 World Cup.