Cape Verde national football team draws with Uruguay 2-2 in World Cup 2026. The 24-year-old striker Hélio Varela scored the goal that secured the draw.

Who is Hélio Varela?

Hélio Varela was born in Almada, Portugal, and could have been playing for the Portuguese national team. However, he chose to play for Cape Verde, his parents' nation.

The important goal

Varela's goal was scored on Sunday (21) and kept Cape Verde in contention for a spot in the World Cup's second phase. | Player | Goal | | --- | --- | | Hélio Varela | 1 |

The decision to play for Cape Verde

Varela said he always thought about playing for the Cape Verde national team. He commented on the criticism he received in 2024 for asking to be excused from the national team for the African Nations Cup.

The return to the national team

Varela returned to the national team after three months and became one of the key players for coach Pedro Brito. He said he is happy and described himself as a cheerful person in his daily life.

Hélio Varela's career

Varela has played for Portimonense, Gent, and currently plays for Maccabi Tel Aviv. He is 24 years old and is one of the main players for the Cape Verde national team.