Cape Verde keep 2026 World Cup dream alive with impressive fight to draw 3-3 with Libya

Cape Verde maintained their place at the top of Group D in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers after a pulsating 3-3 draw with Libya at the Tripoli Stadium on Wednesday.

The Blue Sharks showed incredible resilience, fighting back from two goals down to secure a crucial point that keeps their World Cup dream alive.

Libya took the lead inside the opening minute when Roberto Lopes turned the ball into his own net. Cape Verde responded through Telmo Arcanjo, who levelled the score in the 29th minute. However, Ezoo El Mariamy restored Libya’s advantage seven minutes after the restart, before Mahmoud Al Shalwi made it 3-1 just six minutes later.

Despite the setback, Cape Verde refused to back down. Substitute Sidny Cabral reduced the deficit in the 76th minute, and Willy Semedo came off the bench to complete the comeback with an equaliser eight minutes from time.

The result means Cape Verde sit five points clear at the top of Group D, extending their unbeaten run and staying firmly on course for their first-ever World Cup appearance.

Libya, who were hoping to build on recent wins over Mauritius and Eswatini, dominated large parts of the game but were undone by Cape Verde’s spirited second-half performance.

With one match remaining, Bubista’s men remain in control of their qualification destiny after producing one of the most dramatic games of the campaign.