Cape Verde has etched its name in football history by qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time, following a convincing 3-0 victory over Eswatini on October 13, 2025, at Estádio Nacional in Praia. The Blue Sharks topped CAF Group D with 23 points, finishing ahead of Cameroon, who drew 1-1 with Angola. Goals from Dailon Livramento, Willy Semedo, and Stopira sealed the win, marking a monumental achievement for the nation of approximately 600,000 people, making them the second-smallest country to reach the finals after Iceland in 2018.
The fans stormed in the pitch to celebrate which I think is understandable:
This historic qualification highlights the impact of the World Cup’s expansion to 48 teams and showcases Cape Verde’s rise from 180th to 70th in the FIFA rankings. The success is attributed to a disciplined setup and the inclusion of diaspora players, despite many not playing in top European leagues. The victory has sparked nationwide celebrations, with the government declaring a half-day holiday, and fans invading the pitch, signaling a surge in national pride and potential tourism and sponsorship opportunities for the island nation.
For the sports business in Kenya and beyond, Cape Verde’s journey offers a blueprint for smaller nations to leverage talent and grassroots efforts. As the World Cup draw approaches on December 5, 2025, brands and broadcasters are likely to eye the Blue Sharks as an inspiring underdog story, potentially boosting merchandise sales and viewership. This milestone could inspire similar investments in East African football, encouraging stakeholders to nurture local talent for future global.
