Cape Verde secured their spot in the AFCON quarter-finals with a 1-0 victory over Mauritania in a compelling match on yesterday.
The game initially lacked notable goal-scoring chances until Mendes’ clinical 88th-minute finish, leaving the Mauritanian goalkeeper with little chance.
Throughout the match, Cape Verde maintained a substantial advantage, controlling nearly 70% of possession despite the score remaining level for the majority of the game.
Cape Verde consistently approached breaking the deadlock, notably capitalizing on a corner kick in the 70th minute that the Mauritanian defense struggled to clear.
In the 60th minute, Anne’s shot veered wide, prompting a response from Mauritania. However, both teams faced challenges converting opportunities into goals.
Mauritania’s most perilous moment came in the 57th minute with a free-kick sailing wide near the goal. Despite the proximity, the shot lacked the precision to pose a genuine threat to Cape Verde’s goalkeeper.
