World Cup 2026: Sandro Mendes backs Cape Verde to surprise rivals in historic debut

Former Cape Verde international Sandro Mendes believes the Blue Sharks have what it takes to make a strong impression at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

He insists they can challenge more established nations despite making their first appearance at the tournament.

The former midfielder shared his thoughts in an interview with Kooora ahead of Cape Verde’s historic World Cup debut, reflecting on the national team’s remarkable rise and their chances of causing major upsets in Group H.

From Humble Beginnings to the World Stage

Mendes is among the figures who witnessed Cape Verde’s football journey firsthand. Born in Portugal, he represented Portuguese youth teams before switching allegiance to Cape Verde, where he became part of the national team’s development during the early years of the new millennium.

During a professional career that spanned from 1995 to 2012, Mendes featured for several clubs in Portugal and Spain, including Villarreal. He also enjoyed domestic success with Vitória de Setúbal, winning both the Portuguese Cup and the Portuguese League Cup. Since retiring, he has built a coaching career and currently manages Comercio e Indústria.

Speaking about Cape Verde’s rise, Mendes credited years of planning and commitment for the team’s transformation into one of Africa’s emerging football powers.

“Cape Verde’s rise to prominence didn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of years of work building structure, identity, and belief in the project. As someone who was part of that development, I can say that combining talent, a strong mentality, and better organisation was crucial. We learned how to compete, not just participate, and that change in mentality made all the difference.”

Belief Ahead of Tough Group H Challenge

Cape Verde qualified for the World Cup for the first time in their history after an impressive campaign that saw them eliminate Cameroon. They now face a difficult group featuring Spain, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.

Despite the challenge, Mendes is confident the Blue Sharks can exceed expectations and make life difficult for their opponents.

“This is our first World Cup, but we’re not going there just to enjoy the moment. We respect the team, of course, but we also have faith in our abilities. Cape Verde is a very difficult team to play against. If we maintain our composure, discipline, and courage, we can surprise everyone.”

The former midfielder believes Cape Verde’s organisation and fighting spirit could help them compete against teams with greater resources and international experience.

Saudi Arabia Match Could Be Decided by Fine Margins

One of the most anticipated matches in the group will see Cape Verde take on Saudi Arabia, a fixture Mendes expects to be closely contested.

He pointed to the recent coaching change within the Saudi camp as a factor that could influence the encounter.

“The appointment of a new coach to lead Saudi Arabia introduces an element of uncertainty, but it also adds an element of unpredictability. Such circumstances can go either way. I believe it will be a very tactical match, and the smallest details will decide the outcome.”

As Cape Verde prepare for their first-ever World Cup appearance, Mendes believes the team has the potential to write another memorable chapter in the country’s football history and prove they belong on the biggest stage in world football.