Cape Verde Make History,Qualify For First-Ever FIFA World Cup
2 min read
By Sportsgister
The island nation of Cape Verde has etched its name into football history after securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 3-0 victory over Eswatini on Monday in Praia.
Playing before a jubilant home crowd at the Estádio Nacional de Cabo Verde, the Blue Sharks knew that a win would seal their place on football’s biggest stage for the very first time. However, a cagey and goalless first half tested the patience of the home supporters as Eswatini employed time-wasting tactics and took advantage of strong winds to frustrate the hosts.
After the break, Cape Verde returned with renewed energy and immediately shifted the game’s tempo. Within two minutes of the restart, Dailon Livramento broke the deadlock after Eswatini failed to clear a short corner, leaving him with a simple tap-in from close range.
Just moments later, the stadium erupted again when Willy Semedo pounced on a header across the box to double Cape Verde’s lead, effectively putting the result beyond doubt.
From there, it was a celebration in the stands as Cape Verde dominated possession and kept Eswatini at bay. In stoppage time, veteran defender Stopira added a third goal, sealing a memorable night for the nation and sparking wild celebrations across Praia and beyond.
The final whistle confirmed Cape Verde’s first-ever World Cup qualification, marking a defining moment in the country’s football journey and a source of immense pride for the entire archipelago.
Elsewhere in the group, Cameroon and Angola played out a goalless draw in Yaoundé — a result that keeps Cameroon in contention for a playoff spot as one of the best runners-up. Libya and Mauritius also ended their campaign with a 0-0 stalemate.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
