Cape Verde has officially made football history, securing a direct berth to the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating a stubborn Eswatini side 3-0 in their final Group D qualifier at the Estádio Nacional de Cabo Verde on Monday. The victory guarantees the Blue Sharks a place in the expanded global tournament in North America, marking the nation’s first-ever appearance at the World Cup finals.
Second Half Surge Secures the Dream
The decisive fixture was a tense affair in the first half, played out in front of 15,000 expectant fans. Despite high pressing and intent from coach Bubista’s side, the team struggled to find a breakthrough, with Eswatini successfully locking down their attacking threats, including captain Ryan Mendes. The most significant chance came late in the half when goalkeeper Khanyakwezwe Shabalala pulled off a crucial save from Livramento.
The deadlock was finally broken just two minutes into the second half. A superb cross from Willy Semedo found Dailon Livramento unmarked, who controlled the ball before firing a powerful right-footed shot past the stretching hands of Shabalala in the 48th minute.
The quick momentum shift proved fatal for the visitors. Only six minutes later, Willy Semedo turned goalscorer, rising high in the six-yard box to head home a rebound cross, doubling Cape Verde’s lead in the 54th minute. The island nation sealed the historic victory in stoppage time when substitute Stopira added a third goal, sending the crowd into raptures.
Group D Domination
The three points meant Cape Verde finished confidently at the top of Group D with 23 points, accumulated from seven wins, two draws, and just one defeat throughout the qualification campaign.
Their triumph ensured they finished four points ahead of second-placed Cameroon, who only managed a 0-0 draw against Angola in their final qualifier, allowing the Blue Sharks to claim one of Africa’s nine automatic qualification spots for the 2026 tournament.
