CAN 2015: Cape Verde Also Secures Spot in Final Phase

CAN 2015 Qualifiers: Cape Verde Officially First Team to Qualify, Thanks to Article 14.2

Despite being overshadowed by Algeria’s emphatic 3-0 win over Malawi, Cape Verde holds the distinction of being the first nation to qualify for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations. The Blue Sharks punched their ticket on Matchday 4 with a 1-0 win over Mozambique, taking their points tally to 9 out of 12.

While Algeria made headlines with four straight wins (12 points), Cape Verde’s qualification came mathematically earlier due to CAF’s tie-breaking rules, specifically Article 14.2 of the CAN regulations.

📘 Understanding Article 14.2 – The Key to Cape Verde’s Early Qualification

According to CAF’s Article 14.2, if teams are tied on points at the end of group play, the head-to-head criteria take precedence:

1. Points obtained in matches among the tied teams

2. Goal difference in those head-to-head matches

3. Goals scored in head-to-head matches

4. Overall goal difference

5. Overall goals scored

6. Fair play points

7. Drawing of lots

So even if Mozambique and Zambia were to join Cape Verde on 9 points by the end of the group stage, the head-to-head advantage already guarantees Cape Verde’s top-two finish.

🦈 Blue Sharks Rising

Cape Verde, who reached the quarterfinals of the 2013 AFCON in their debut appearance, continues to impress on the continental stage. They are currently ranked:

• 7th in Africa

• 41st in the FIFA World Rankings

These stats underline a small nation that’s been punching above its weight in African football.

🔍 Group Snapshot (After Matchday 4):

• Cape Verde – 9 pts ✅ (Qualified)

• Zambia – chasing

• Mozambique – chasing

• Niger – struggling

What’s Next?

Cape Verde can now afford to rotate or experiment in the remaining two qualifiers. With qualification secured, the focus will likely shift to:

• Maintaining momentum

• Avoiding injuries

• Testing squad depth

If the Blue Sharks’ 2013 debut was impressive, CAN 2015 offers a golden opportunity for them to cement their reputation as one of Africa’s most consistent footballing nations.