World Cup 2026: Saudi Arabia vs Cape Verde Tips, Odds & Prediction

* Odds from Betway, correct at time of writing.

Saudi Arabia face Cape Verde at NRG Stadium in Houston on Saturday morning, with kickoff at 02:00 CAT on the final Group H matchday. Saudi Arabia must win to keep their qualification hopes alive after a heavy defeat to Spain, while Cape Verde can reach the knockout rounds on their World Cup debut with a victory. For all our World Cup betting tips, head to our dedicated section.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia started the tournament with a battling draw with Uruguay before they were comprehensively beaten by Spain. Salem Al-Dawsari is their main creative force and they will need him at his best to break Cape Verde down. Herve Renard is likely to freshen up his side after the Spain loss, and there are no fresh injury worries in the camp. They know nothing short of a win will do, so I expect them to commit forward to press for the goal, or goals, that they need.

Predicted Lineup: Al-Owais; Abdulhamid, Al-Tambakti, Lajami, Al-Harbi; Kanno, Al-Khaibari, N. Al-Sawsari, S. Al-Dawsari; Al-Buraikan, Al-Juwayr.

Cape Verde

Cape Verde have been the story of the group, holding Spain to a goalless draw and earning a point against Uruguay. They are well-organised and goalkeeper Vozinha has been excellent behind a disciplined back line. Knowing a win takes them through, I expect them to back themselves rather than settle for a point. They come into this with a clean bill of health and real belief in their ability to advance out of the Group Stage.

Predicted Lineup: Vozinha; S. Moreira, R. Lopes, Diney, Lopes Cabral; K. Pina; Arcanjo, Mendes, Monteiro, G. Rodrigues; Tavares.

Both teams need the win to guarantee advancing out of the Group Stage, which should open the game up and create chances at both ends. Cape Verde have looked the more assured side throughout the group and I just favour them to edge a high tempo contest. My forecast: Saudi Arabia 1 Cape Verde 2.

BTTS: Yes (1.78)

I am backing both teams to score. With Saudi Arabia chasing a result they cannot afford to miss and Cape Verde keen to seal qualification, both sides will push forward. Saudi Arabia found the net against Uruguay and Cape Verde carry a threat particularly through Livramento, so 1.78 on both scoring appeals.