Cape Verde Qualifies for First-Ever FIFA World Cup After Historic Win Over Eswatini

Cape Verde has achieved a historic milestone by qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time, following a commanding 3-0 victory over Eswatini on Monday, October 13, in Praia.

The win secured the Blue Sharks’ place at the top of Group D with 23 points, four ahead of second-placed Cameroon, who were held to a goalless draw by Angola in Yaoundé. With a population of just over 550,000, Cape Verde becomes the second smallest nation ever to reach a World Cup, after Iceland in 2018.

An emotional coach Pedro ‘Bubista’ Brito called the qualification “a victory for all Cape Verdeans” and dedicated it to the country’s independence fighters.

Dailon Livramento broke the deadlock just after halftime, followed by Willy Semedo’s goal in the 54th minute. Substitute Stopira sealed the victory in stoppage time before a jubilant home crowd of 15,000.

Cape Verde’s qualification comes after a remarkable comeback in the qualifiers. Following a slow start, they won five straight matches, climbing to the top of the group. The squad features many players of Cape Verdean descent born abroad, including Livramento from Rotterdam and Semedo from France.

Team captain Ryan Mendes and veteran goalkeeper Vozinha were both overcome with emotion after the final whistle, calling the achievement “a dream come true.”

Coach Bubista, who has led the team since 2020, previously guided Cape Verde to two Africa Cup of Nations knockout stages. The nation will now join Africa’s contingent for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

“This qualification means everything,” Bubista said. “It’s for the people, for our football, and for the dream we all share.”