Cape Verde made history on Monday after securing qualification for their first World Cup with a 3-0 victory over Eswatini in their final Group D qualifier of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Blue Sharks, needing a win to seal one of Africa’s nine automatic berths for the expanded 2026 World Cup, delivered a commanding second-half performance in front of over 15,000 jubilant fans in Praia.
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After a goalless first half, Dailon Livramento broke the deadlock in the 48th minute before Willy Semedo doubled the advantage six minutes later.
Substitute Stopira put the result beyond doubt with a stoppage-time strike to spark wild celebrations across the island nation.
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Cape Verde finished top of Group D with 23 points; seven wins, two draws, and a single defeat, four points clear of second-placed Cameroon, who were held to a goalless draw by Angola in Yaoundé.
“Giving this happiness to these people is enormous. It’s a victory for all Cape Verdeans and, above all, for those who fought for our independence. It’s a special moment in this celebration of the 50th anniversary of our independence,” Cape Verde coach Pedro “Bubista Brito said.
Veteran goalkeeper Vozinha, who has represented the national team for nearly two decades, was overcome with emotion after the final whistle.”
Cape Verde’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup marks a remarkable rise for the tiny Atlantic archipelago, with a total population of just over half a million.
