Cape Verde has made history by booking its maiden ticket to the FIFA World Cup following a commanding 3-0 victory over Eswatini on Monday at the National Stadium in Praia.
The triumph sparked jubilant celebrations across the island nation of fewer than 600,000 people.
The Tubarões Azuis (Blue Sharks) had only made their first Africa Cup of Nations appearance in 2013 and were seen as outsiders in Group D of the African qualifiers, which featured heavyweights like Cameroon. But under the astute leadership of manager Bubista, the team defied all odds.
Cape Verde remained unbeaten at home throughout the campaign, winning four of five matches and remarkably not conceding a single goal. Their 1-0 triumph over Cameroon in Praia proved pivotal, balancing out a 4-1 defeat in Yaoundé and setting the stage for their historic qualification.
On Monday, goals from Dailon Livramento, Willy Semedo, and Stopira early in the second half sealed the deal, rendering Cameroon’s result against Angola meaningless. Cameroon will finish second in the group and may still have a chance to qualify through the playoffs.
Experience was key to Cape Verde’s success, with seasoned campaigners like Ryan Mendes, Vozinha, Stopira, and Garry Rodrigues playing crucial roles. Mendes, the nation’s all-time top scorer with 22 goals, once again led by example.
Formerly a Portuguese colony until 1974, Cape Verde joined FIFA in 1982 and has steadily grown into one of Africa’s most disciplined and organised footballing sides.
Their qualification marks a proud milestone in the country’s sporting history and a moment of immense national pride.
They are the sixth African country to qualify for next year’s World Cup, joining the likes of Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt, and Ghana.
