Cape Verde Make History as Second-Smallest Nation to Qualify for 2026 World Cup

The Blue Sharks book their place on football’s biggest stage after a dominant win over Eswatini.

Cape Verde national football team have etched their name in football history by becoming the second-smallest nation ever to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The island nation secured their place after a convincing 3-0 home victory over Eswatini national football team in Praia.

With this win, Cape Verde topped their qualifying group ahead of African giants Cameroon national football team, clinching one of Africa’s automatic slots for the expanded tournament to be held in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Blue Sharks Dominate on Home Soil

Dailon Livramento gave the home fans something to cheer about when he opened the scoring early in the second half, calmly slotting in a loose ball inside the box. Willy Semedo quickly doubled the lead with a well-timed volley, putting the match firmly in Cape Verde’s control.

Veteran defender Stopira sealed the win in stoppage time, triggering wild celebrations at the 15,000-capacity National Stadium in Praia as fans waved flags and sang songs of national pride.

From Small Islands to the Global Stage

Cape Verde, an archipelago of 10 islands in the Atlantic Ocean with a population of just under 525,000, has made a remarkable leap in international football. The nation gained independence from Portugal in 1975 and began its World Cup journey two decades later.

Only Iceland, which qualified for the 2018 World Cup, has a smaller population among countries to have reached the tournament.

Road to Qualification

Their path to the 2026 World Cup was not without drama. Cape Verde positioned themselves at the top of Group D after a narrow 1-0 victory over Cameroon last month. A dramatic 3-3 draw away to Libya national football team last Wednesday delayed their celebrations, but their win over Eswatini left no doubts.

President José Maria Neves watched from the stands as the Blue Sharks delivered a performance worthy of history.

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Expanded Slots Boost African Dreams

Centre-back Roberto Lopes highlighted how the increase in Africa’s World Cup slots  from five to nine was a game-changer.

“Traditionally, it’s been difficult to qualify for the World Cup, especially in Africa,” Lopes explained. “This time, if you finish first, you’re in. The motivation to hold that top spot was crucial for us.”

Cameroon Face Tougher Route

For five-time Africa Cup of Nations winners Cameroon, the result marks a disappointing turn. The Indomitable Lions failed to win away games against Libya, Angola, and Eswatini, leaving them needing both African and inter-confederation play-offs to keep their World Cup hopes alive.

Their slip has paved the way for Cape Verde to take a well-deserved place among the best teams in the world.

A Nation Celebrates

For the people of Cape Verde, this qualification goes beyond football  it is a symbol of resilience, unity, and national pride. From the beaches of Mindelo to the capital Praia, celebrations erupted as fans rejoiced in the historic achievement.

As they prepare for their World Cup debut, the Blue Sharks have shown the world that even small nations can dream big and make it a reality.

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