Group H is shaping up for perhaps the most intriguing finale out of all of the 12 groups at this summer’s World Cup.
That’s because none of the positions in the group are yet nailed down, with Spain, Uruguay and Cape Verde all still mathematically capable of topping the group while bottom side Saudi Arabia could still finish as high as second.
The group will come to a close on Friday, with Cape Verde set to face Saudi Arabia at will definitely be out of the World Cup if they lose to Spain, as they would be certain to be overtaken by either Cape Verde or Saudi Arabia (or both, if they were to lose by five goals while the other game ended in a draw) and two points would definitely not be enough to put them through as could possibly top the group.
But a win over Saudi Arabia would guarantee the World Cup debutants a place in the round of 32 regardless what happens in the other game, as they would overtake at least one of Spain and/or Uruguay to finish in the top two.
A draw would put Cape Verde second if Uruguay lose. If Uruguay also draw, who got second place out of the two sides would come down to goals scored, then team conduct score. If they were still level on all fronts, Uruguay would progress on the basis of their FIFA world ranking
Cape Verde would definitely be out if they lose.
• Saudi Arabia will definitely be out unless they beat Cape Verde.
If they do manage to pick up the three points, they would finish second in the group unless Uruguay beat Spain.
If that happens, Saudi Arabia would finish third, but holding four points would still give them a good chance of making it through as one of the best third-placed sides. If they beat Cape Verde by at least three goals, their place in the round of 32 would be guaranteed.