Historic 3–0 Win Over Eswatini Seals Spot for 2026
Cape Verde has made history by qualifying for the FIFA World Cup for the first time after defeating Eswatini 3–0 in Praia. Goals from Dailon Rocha Livramento, Willy Semedo, and captain Stopira secured top position in Group D of the African qualifiers, edging out regional powerhouse Cameroon. The victory marked a defining milestone for the island nation, which will now join the expanded 2026 World Cup hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
A Nation of Half a Million Achieves the Impossible
With a population of just over 525,000, Cape Verde becomes the second-smallest country ever to reach a men’s World Cup, after Iceland’s qualification in 2018. Head coach Pedro “Bubista” Brito has guided the team to new heights, blending domestic players with a strong contingent from the Cape Verdean diaspora across Europe. The achievement crowns years of steady progress, following the team’s strong showings at recent Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
Celebrations Erupt Across the Islands
Thousands of fans flooded the streets of the capital, Praia, waving flags and dancing through the night after the final whistle. The government declared a national holiday to mark the occasion, as residents across the archipelago celebrated what many described as one of the proudest moments in Cape Verde’s modern history. For players and supporters alike, the qualification represents more than sporting success—it’s a symbol of national unity and global recognition.
