Cape Verde Shocks World by Qualifying for First FIFA World Cup

CAPE TOWN, South Africa – Cape Verde made history on October 13 by qualifying for the FIFA World Cup for the first time. They secured their spot after a convincing 3-0 victory over Eswatini in their final group match held in Praia.

The match started slowly for Cape Verde, which showed signs of nerves in the first half. However, in the second half, Dailon Livramento broke the deadlock just three minutes after the break, capitalizing on Eswatini’s failure to clear the ball. Willy Semedo followed suit with another goal six minutes later, further solidifying Cape Verde’s lead.

Veteran player Stopira sealed the match in stoppage time, scoring his first goal of the campaign after coming on as a late substitute. This celebration was particularly heartfelt, marking his long service to the national team since 2008.

With this victory, Cape Verde topped Group D with 23 points, four points ahead of Cameroon, who had been widely regarded as the favorite. Cameroon, a seasoned participant in World Cups, could only manage a goalless draw against Angola in their final match.

Cape Verde’s qualification is especially noteworthy as they are the second smallest nation to make it to the World Cup, following Iceland. The archipelago, comprising around 600,000 residents, received a day off from work to enjoy the moment of joy and unity.

Cape Verde will join other African nations, including Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, and Ghana, in the World Cup finals in North America next year.

As celebrations swelled in Praia, Livramento expressed his gratitude, stating, “This is a dream come true for us. We made our country proud today.”