Cape Verde qualifies for the World Cup for the first time after beating Eswatini

Sports Update: Cape Verde Qualifies for 2026 World Cup

Cape Verde has secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup for the first time following a 3-0 victory against Eswatini. This achievement grants the archipelago one of the nine automatic positions allocated to the African continent.

The match took place on Monday, with Dailon Livramento scoring in the 48th minute, followed by Willy Semedo in the 54th, and Stopira adding a goal during stoppage time. The victory ensured Cape Verde's first-place finish in Group D.

Cape Verde's qualification makes it the second smallest country by population to participate in the World Cup, following Iceland's appearance in 2018. The Blue Sharks concluded the group stage with a four-point lead over Cameroon, who drew 0-0 with Angola.

The nine group winners from Africa automatically qualify for the World Cup. The four best runners-up will compete in a mini-tournament in November, with the winner advancing to a playoff against teams from Asia, CONCACAF, South America, and Oceania.

Mauritius and Libya concluded their match with a 0-0 draw in Group D. In Group C, Lesotho achieved a 1-0 victory over Zimbabwe.

The 2026 World Cup will feature an expanded format with 48 teams, increased from 32 in previous tournaments.

Based on reporting by Africanews.