Cape Verde retain World Cup core for Rwanda Africa Cup of Nations qualifier

Cape Verde are set to maintain a strong degree of continuity when they host Rwanda in their Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifier, with a squad featuring several of the players who made history at the last World Cup.

Vozinha is expected to start in goal, behind a defence of Steven Moreira, Roberto Lopes, Edilson Borges and Stopira. Kevin Pina, Deroy Duarte and Laros Duarte are likely to form the midfield, with Nuno Da Costa, Ryan Mendes and Jamiro Cabral leading the attack.

Cape Verde predicted line-up: Vozinha (GK), Steven Moreira, Roberto Lopes, Edilson Borges, Stopira, Kevin Pina, Deroy Duarte, Laros Duarte, Nuno Da Costa, Ryan Mendes, Jamiro Cabral

Rwanda are expected to rely on a well-organised defensive structure as they attempt to disrupt the hosts’ plans. Fiacre Ntwari should start in goal, with Claude Niyomugabo, Ange Mutsinzi, Emmanuel Imanishimwe and Clement Twizere Buhake in defence.

Djihad Bizimana and Kevin Muhire are set to operate in midfield, while Jojea Kwizera, Abeddy Biramahire, Innocent Nshuti and Joy-Lance Mickels are likely to complete the Rwandan line-up.

Rwanda predicted line-up: Fiacre Ntwari (GK), Claude Niyomugabo, Ange Mutsinzi, Emmanuel Imanishimwe, Clement Twizere Buhake, Djihad Bizimana, Kevin Muhire, Jojea Kwizera, Abeddy Biramahire, Innocent Nshuti, Joy-Lance Mickels

Cape Verde will have home advantage and appear to possess greater depth on the bench. Rwanda’s main approach will be to remain compact and defensively disciplined in an effort to frustrate the home side.