What would it mean for a country with a population just 1/60th that of Texas to join the World Cup?
Cape Verde, home to slightly more than 500,000 residents, is set to make its World Cup debut. The team features players from leagues in Portugal, France, and the Middle East, alongside notable local talent.
How qualification was achieved:
Cape Verde secured its spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after finishing first in Group D of the CAF Qualifiers, gathering four points more than Cameroon. With 7 victories and 2 draws in 10 matches, the team boasts a goal difference of +8.
Upcoming World Cup matches:
- June 15th: Cape Verde vs. Spain — Atlanta Stadium (12 p.m. ET)
- June 21st: Cape Verde vs. Uruguay — Miami Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida (6 p.m. ET)
- June 26th: Cape Verde vs. Saudi Arabia — Houston Stadium (8 p.m. ET)
Group H: Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay | 2026 FIFA World Cup Draw
Group H for the 2026 FIFA World Cup includes Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay.
Previous World Cup participation:
- This marks Cape Verde’s inaugural appearance in the World Cup.
Key players to watch from Cape Verde:
Ryan Mendes, the all-time top scorer and appearance leader for Cape Verde, brings extensive experience from his time in Europe and the Middle East, having played for clubs like Le Havre, Lille, Nottingham Forest, and Sharjah. He has participated in multiple AFCON tournaments and has scored during World Cup and other qualification processes.
Who coaches Cape Verde?
Bubista, who has been at the helm since 2020, previously played as a defender for the national teams of both Cape Verde and Angola. His coaching has been noted for integrating a steady group of players based in Europe, leading to better results in international competitions.
Cape Verde’s top scorers throughout history:
- Ryan Mendes: 22 goals (currently active)
- Mendes has played for various clubs, including Le Havre, Lille, Nottingham Forest, Sharjah, Kayserispor, Al Nasr, and Eidur.
- He is also the all-time cap leader with 92 appearances.
Nickname for the Cape Verdean team:
About the nation:
- Population: Approximately 528,000
- Capital: Praia
Interested in receiving great articles straight to your inbox? Create or log in to your FOX Sports account to follow leagues, teams, and players and get personalized newsletters every day!
Fan Take: Cape Verde’s World Cup debut is significant not just for the team but for the underdog narrative it represents in international soccer. Their participation could inspire smaller nations, showcasing that dreams of competing on the world’s biggest stage are achievable.
