The fifth matchday of the 2026 World Cup wrapped up late at night Kyiv time and delivered four surprisingly even contests. The morning digest didn't manage to cover the matches that finished after 08:00 Kyiv time — we're filling that gap now.
Spain 0-0 Cape Verde — the sensation of Group H
Reigning European champions and one of the tournament's top favourites, Spain, failed to unlock the defence of World Cup debutants Cape Verde and shared the points in a Group H match at the stadium in Atlanta. The 0-0 scoreline is one of the biggest surprises of the tournament's opening week. The islanders' goalkeeper Vozinha was the star of the match, and his social media following skyrocketed after the final whistle.
Before the game, Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente left Lamine Yamal on the bench despite the star winger being in "perfect form". Spain now need a win over Saudi Arabia on June 21 to guarantee their place in the next round.
Saudi Arabia 1-1 Uruguay — an even contest in Miami
In the second Group H match, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay also couldn't find a winner — 1-1 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Both teams start with one point each, and the battle to advance from Group H remains completely open.
Belgium 1-1 Egypt and Iran 2-2 New Zealand — draws in Group G
Group G also failed to produce a leader after the first round. Belgium and Egypt played out a 1-1 draw in Seattle — Mohamed Salah, who arrived at the tournament after a disappointing final season at Liverpool, couldn't deliver a win for his national side. Iran and New Zealand traded goals twice and parted ways with a 2-2 scoreline in Los Angeles. All four teams in Group G have one point each.
Today's schedule: France, Argentina and Norway take the field
Three matches are scheduled at WC 2026 this evening: France vs Senegal (Group I, MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, 22:00 Kyiv time), Iraq vs Norway (Group I, Gillette Stadium, Foxboro, 01:00 on June 16/17 Kyiv time), and Argentina vs Algeria (Group J, Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, 04:00 Kyiv time). A detailed preview will appear in the evening column at 18:45.
