FIFA World Cup 2026: Celebrations erupt as Cape Verde secure historic qualification

ISLAMABAD: Cape Verde have finally booked their place to play in the FIFA World Cup 2026, following an unexpected 3-0 victory over Eswatini on Monday.

The triumph placed Cape Verde at the top of their African qualifying group for the mega FIFA event.

The island nation, with a total population of around 550,000, became the second smallest country by population ever to qualify for the World Cup. Iceland, with just over 350,000 citizens, was the smallest to do so when they appeared in Russia 2018.

Netherlands-born Dilon Livramento opened the scoring for Cape Verde in the 48th minute, followed by Willy Semedo in the 54th minute, before Stopira sealed the victory in style.

Players and fans erupted with chants and celebrations after the remarkable performance that powered the island nation past their African group rivals.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino also shared a video message congratulating the team for their outstanding achievement.

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A post shared by Gianni Infantino – FIFA President (@gianni_infantino)

“What a historic moment! Congratulations to everyone in Cape Verde for making the FIFA World Cup for the first time. Your flag will fly, and your anthem will be heard at the greatest FIFA World Cup ever,” Infantino said.

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Encouraging the team further, he added, “Your recent work in football development has been exceptional. This is the moment when your stars will rise on the world stage and inspire a new generation of football lovers across Cape Verde.”

Sadiq Khan