Cape Verde qualify for 2026 FIFA World Cup, book first ever spot in showpiece event; capital Praia erupts

Cape Verde has achieved a historic first by qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating Eswatini 3-0 to secure their spot. The Blue Sharks dominated their group, with goals from Livramento, Semedo, and Stopira sparking widespread celebrations. This remarkable achievement, coinciding with the nation's 50th independence anniversary, marks a significant milestone for the island nation.

Fans celebrate in the stands after Cape Verde defeated Eswatini in a World Cup qualifying match at Estádio Nacional in Praia, Cape Verde, to clinch their qualification for the 2026 World Cup. (AP)

Cape Verde, a small island nation of 550,000 people, made history on Monday by qualifying for their first-ever FIFA World Cup. They defeated Eswatini 3-0 in Praia to secure their spot in the 2026 tournament, becoming the second-smallest country after Iceland to reach the World Cup finals. The Blue Sharks dominated Group D with 23 points, finishing ahead of eight-time World Cup participants Cameroon. Goals from Dailon Livramento, Willy Semedo, and Stopira in the second half sparked wild celebrations across the capital city Praia. "Giving this happiness to these people is enormous... it's a victory for all the Cape Verdean people and, above all, a victory for those who fought for our independence," said coach Pedro Brito, known as Bubista, highlighting the achievement's significance during the country's 50th independence anniversary.

Fans celebrate after Cape Verde defeated Eswatini in a World Cup qualifying match at Estádio Nacional in Praia, Cape Verde, to clinch their qualification for the 2026 World Cup. (AP)

The victory triggered a carnival-like atmosphere in Praia. Fans poured onto the streets, honking horns and setting off fireworks. Local reggae and funana music filled the air as people danced in celebration. The team's success is remarkable given their rocky start to the campaign. After drawing with Angola and losing to Cameroon, they won five straight matches to secure qualification. The Blue Sharks rely heavily on players born outside the country to Cape Verdean parents or grandparents. Emotional captain Ryan Mendes said: "Honestly, I don't have the words to describe this moment. I'm very, very happy." Veteran goalkeeper Vozinha, 39, added: "I have been dreaming of this moment since I was a child. It's time to celebrate."

Cape Verde players celebrate after clinching their qualification for 2026 FIFA World Cup. (AP)

FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised the historic achievement, saying it would likely "power a new generation of football lovers" across the nation. Cape Verde join Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, and Ghana as the six African teams that have already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The triumph is particularly meaningful for this former Portuguese colony, which gained independence in 1975 and first attempted World Cup qualification in 2002. The team has shown steady progress, reaching the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals in both 2013 and 2023.

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