Cape Verde Celebrates Historic World Cup Qualification

Nation Declares Moment as Its Greatest Achievement Since Independence

The moment came in the 91st minute when Stopira’s shot rippled the back of the net, sealing an unforgettable night. The stands erupted into a sea of blue, red, and white as players, fans, and officials celebrated a historic achievement. For the first time in history, Cape Verde had qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026. On the touchline, players embraced, some overcome with tears, as a long-held dream became a stunning reality.

A Milestone Intertwined with Independence

This moment carried even deeper meaning, arriving during the 50th anniversary of Cape Verde’s independence, celebrated on July 5, 1975. “Giving this happiness to these people is enormous,” said head coach Bubista, reflecting on what the win means for the nation. For many in the capital Praia, World Cup qualification is being hailed as the biggest moment since the country gained independence.

Fans Fill the National Stadium

Following the 3–0 victory against Eswatini, fans lingered in the National Stadium for hours, waving flags and singing. Players draped in Cape Verde’s colors took a lap of honor, proudly wearing specially designed World Cup qualification T-shirts. Even players from the diaspora, many of whom were raised overseas, felt the weight of the moment deeply.

Diaspora Players Share Their Joy

“Honestly, I’ve played in Europe and won trophies in MLS, but playing for your country is something different,” said defender Steven Moreira of Columbus Crew. “The passion they give you is just amazing. This group is a family. You can see it when we scorewe celebrate together, dancing.” Similarly, Roberto Lopes, born in Dublin to a Cape Verdean father, searched the crowd for his father as he celebrated. “There’s relief, there’s joy every emotion. But we did it, and no one can take that away.”

Presidential Pride and National Unity

Among the cheering crowd was President José Maria Neves, proudly holding a banner announcing Cape Verde’s World Cup ticket moments after the final whistle. He, too, compared this moment to independence in its significance. Members of the national team’s backroom staff, including newly appointed technical director Rui Costa, joined the celebrations on the pitch. “I’m proud of my country and my team,” Costa said. “We have great coaches, great players, and a bright future ahead.”

A Historic Venue for a Historic Party

Once the celebrations at the stadium wound down, the party moved to Estádio da Várzea, the same venue where Cape Verde’s independence was celebrated in 1975 and where their first World Cup qualifiers took place in 2000. By nightfall, the big screen showing the match was replaced with live music. Members of Broederliefde, a Dutch-Cape Verdean hip-hop group, performed in front of ecstatic fans.

Streets Overflow with Celebration

Outside the players’ hotel, thousands of supporters gathered. Police struggled to control traffic as horns blared and drums echoed samba and reggae beats across Praia. “I shouted a lot during the match and now my voice is bad, but I am happy,” said fan Jose Vieira. Taxi driver Maximo Gomes added, “It is the biggest event since independence. The President said it, and we all feel it.”

A New Chapter on the Global Stage

Many Cape Verdeans grew up supporting Portugal national football team during the World Cup. But this time, as hotelier Sydney Elias put it, “we’ll cheer for our own flag.” The nation now looks forward to potentially facing Portugal and its stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes on the world stage.

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A Catalyst for National Transformation

Costa believes this qualification will have a lasting impact. “Many African countries changed after qualifying for the World Cup,” he explained, recalling his conversation with Aliou Cissé of Senegal. “I think it will be the same here it’s already changing.” As the second-smallest nation to ever qualify, after Iceland, Cape Verde now has a chance to cement its name in international football history.

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