Cape Verde Celebrates Historic First-Ever World Cup Qualification with Joyous Nationwide Festivities
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Cape Verde erupted in nationwide celebration after securing a historic first-ever qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Blue Sharks sealed their spot with a convincing 3–0 victory over Eswatini, sparking joyous scenes across the archipelago nation’s capital, Praia, and beyond.
As the final whistle blew at the Cape Verde National Stadium, crowds flooded the streets waving flags, dancing, and singing to reggae and traditional funana music. Horns blared, fireworks lit the night sky, and fans cheered their team’s name long after the match ended. For many, it was an emotional moment that symbolized decades of perseverance. “I don’t have words. I was at the stadium and I supported our team unconditionally,” said 37-year-old fan Jorge Junior Livramento. “It’s an incredible moment.”
How Big Is Cape Verde’s World Cup Achievement?
With a population of just 550,000, Cape Verde becomes the smallest African nation ever to qualify for the World Cup. It also ranks as the second-least populous country to reach the tournament globally, after Iceland, which did so in 2018. FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated the team, calling it a “historic moment” that will “power a new generation of football lovers” across the country.
Blue Sharks coach Pedro “Bubista” Brito described the achievement as deeply meaningful for his people. “Giving this happiness to these people is enormous. It’s a victory for all the Cape Verdean people,” he said. Bubista’s team finished top of Group D with 23 points, four ahead of Cameroon, who hold the record for the most World Cup appearances by an African nation.
Why This Victory Means More than Football
The qualification comes at a symbolic time, coinciding with Cape Verde’s 50th anniversary of independence from Portugal. Bubista reflected on the connection, saying, “It’s a victory for all the Cape Verdean people and, above all, a victory for those who fought for our independence.”
From the streets of Praia to the island of São Vicente, pride and emotion were palpable. “It’s a fight we’ve been trying to achieve for a long time and finally coach Bubista managed to get us there,” said Doris Da Luz, a local entrepreneur proudly dressed in the team’s blue colors.
Veteran goalkeeper Vozinha, 39, summed up the nation’s collective joy: “It’s time to celebrate. I’ve been dreaming of this moment since I was a child.”
With this triumph, Cape Verde joins Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, and Ghana as one of six African nations already qualified for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. For Cape Verde, this is more than just a sporting victory—it’s a defining moment of national pride and unity
By Yockshard Enyendi
