Cape Verde has achieved a historic milestone, becoming the smallest nation to advance to the knockout stage of the World Cup on their debut appearance. The team, representing a group of 10 Atlantic islands with a population of approximately 525,000 to 530,000 inhabitants, secured their spot in the last 32, where they are set to face defending champions Argentina.
The qualification was confirmed after a goalless draw against Saudi Arabia. Following the match, players gathered on the pitch, watching the final moments of Spain‘s victory over Uruguay on a mobile phone. This result ensured Cape Verde finished as Group H runners-up, sparking emotional celebrations among the team and fans in Houston.
A Journey of Resilience and Strategy
Cape Verde‘s path to the knockout rounds included an impressive goalless draw in their opening game against Spain, where 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha played a pivotal role with seven saves. They also secured a 2-2 draw against two-time World Cup winners Uruguay. Former World Cup winner Juan Mata noted their consistent performance, stating, “It’s incredible what they are doing, it wasn’t just one game against Spain, it is three games at the highest level.”
A key factor in the success of the Blue Sharks has been the strategic decision by the Cape Verde Football Federation (FCF) to recruit players from the country’s diaspora. Strong historical links to Portugal, coupled with a seafaring tradition, have led to a significant population with Cape Verdean roots in places like Rotterdam. Of their 26-man World Cup squad, fourteen members were born abroad, with six originating from the Dutch port city.
One such player, forward Dailon Livramento, who played for Casa Pia in Portugal‘s Primeira Liga last season, scored the crucial goal in their qualifying victory over Cameroon. Josina Freitas Fortes, a member of Cape Verde‘s parliament, highlighted that the results are a product of years of consistent work, strong belief, and dedication to the project.
The team’s recruitment efforts have also included unique stories, such as the enlistment of Dublin-born centre-back Roberto Lopes via LinkedIn in 2019. Additionally, former Manchester United winger Bebe was part of their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) squad, having previously represented Portugal at the under-21 level. Lopes expressed the team’s inner confidence, stating, “There is an inner confidence in this team that we are good enough to mix with the best teams in the world.”
The stability in coaching under Bubista, a former international who has been in charge since January 2020, is also credited for the team’s strong performances. The 56-year-old coach has fostered a compact and well-drilled side known for its organized defence, technical midfielders, and skilled forwards. This approach was evident in their run to the quarter-finals at Afcon 2023, where they upset Ghana and drew with Egypt.
Their disciplined play was particularly notable in the draw against Spain, where they conceded only one foul, the fewest recorded by a team in a World Cup match since 1966. Defender Sidny Lopes Cabral emphasized the team’s identity, saying, “For us, it’s our game. This is how we play, this is who we are.” Bubista was recognized for his achievements, being named the continent’s coach of the year for 2025 by the Confederation of African Football.
Bubista had previously expressed his belief in the team’s potential, stating before the 2021 Afcon, “I think in the future we’ll be at the World Cup.” This prediction has now come to fruition, and he hopes Cape Verde‘s success at the expanded tournament will inspire other underdog teams globally. “I believe that football belongs to everyone, or is for everyone,” he added.
Anticipation for the Knockout Stage
The reward for Cape Verde‘s historic achievement is a clash with Lionel Messi‘s Argentina in Miami on Friday, July 3rd. Midfielder Deroy Duarte, who was named man of the match against Saudi Arabia, described the feeling as surreal: “Honestly, it’s mad. I feel like I’m in a dream.” He added, “It’s against Argentina, isn’t it? A tough match, but let’s believe. Anything is possible.”
Former Tottenham, Nottingham Forest, Celtic, and Australia boss Ange Postecoglou praised the story, highlighting how football connects various parts of the globe. Former England and Manchester United defender Gary Neville also commented on the significance of Cape Verde‘s progress, suggesting that skeptics of the expanded World Cup might be reconsidering their views.
The encounter between Vozinha, who was playing in the São Vicente island league at the age of 29, and Lionel Messi is anticipated to be a memorable moment. The team’s captain, 36-year-old Ryan Mendes, who plays in Turkey‘s second tier, will also be a key figure in the upcoming match.
The Blue Sharks‘ journey has been described as a “fairytale” and a compelling underdog story. They became the first side since Chile in 1998 to advance from the group stage with three draws. The team’s unity and collective strength, rather than reliance on one or two players, have been consistently showcased in each match.
The upcoming match against Argentina is scheduled for Friday, July 3rd, in Miami.
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Source: bbc.com
