Cabo Verde on the brink of making World Cup history

13/10/2025

By RSR Málaga – 13 October 2025

Cabo Verde are one game away from making history — their first-ever FIFA World Cup qualification could become reality this week.

The Blue Sharks currently lead Group D of the African qualifiers with 20 points in 9 matches, ahead of Cameroon (18 points). All they need is a win — or even a draw, depending on results — against Eswatini at home to secure a place in the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Their journey has been nothing short of heroic. In their previous match against Libya, Cape Verde came back from 3–1 down to draw 3–3, with goals from Sidny Cabral and Willy Semedo. A potential winning goal was controversially ruled out for offside, sparking outrage due to the lack of VAR in African qualifiers.

If they manage to hold on at the top, Cape Verde will become one of the smallest nations ever to qualify for a World Cup — a monumental achievement for a country of just over 500,000 inhabitants.

Captain Stopira and coach Pedro Brito “Bubista” have inspired a new generation of talent, blending European-based players with local passion. The dream that once seemed impossible is now just 90 minutes away.

“This is not just football for us,” said Bubista after the Libya draw. “It’s about hope, pride, and showing that a small nation can dream big.”

Now, the world watches.

Cabo Verde is one step from glory.