Cape Verde qualifies for FIFA World Cup for the first time in its history.
Cape Verde has achieved a remarkable milestone by qualifying for the FIFA 2026 World Cup, following an impressive 3-0 victory against Eswatini in their final group stage match. This victory marks a historic moment for the island nation, as it prepares for its inaugural appearance at this prestigious global sporting event, which has previously been dominated by more traditional football powerhouses.
The qualification journey was notably characterized by a fairytale campaign for Cape Verde, which overcame initial anxieties in the first half of the decisive match held in the nation’s capital, Praia. The team found its rhythm in the second half, with goals coming from Dailon Livramento, Willy Semedo, and veteran player Stopira. Livramento opened the scoring shortly after the break, capitalizing on Eswatini’s defensive lapse. Semedo quickly followed with another goal, and the 37-year-old Stopira, who joined the field as a late substitute, sealed the victory with a goal in stoppage time, further celebrating his long-standing commitment to the team since 2008.
This victory was celebrated resoundingly by the island’s close-knit community of approximately 600,000 inhabitants, who were given the day off work to show their support for the national team. Although the first half was marked by a cautious approach, the mood shifted dramatically following Livramento’s goal, igniting widespread celebrations throughout the archipelago.
Cape Verde’s achievement is particularly notable as it becomes the second-smallest country—after Iceland—to qualify for a World Cup, reflecting the nation’s growth in international football over the last quarter century. The team completed Group D with an impressive total of 23 points, finishing four points clear of their nearest rivals, Cameroon, who have qualified for the World Cup on eight prior occasions.
In addition to Cape Verde, African representation at the upcoming World Cup will include notable nations such as Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, and Ghana, underscoring the continent’s vibrant football culture and growing talent on the international stage.
As Cape Verde prepares for its historic debut in North America next year, the enthusiasm surrounding their journey showcases the nation’s resilience and passion for football, thus highlighting the sport as a unifying force in their society.
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