African minnows Cape Verde seal historic World Cup qualification

Cape Verde secured their spot at the 2026 World Cup by beating Eswatini 3-0 at home on Monday.

In doing so, the African nation became the second-smallest, by population, to qualify for FIFA’s flagship international tournament, which has been expanded to 48 teams for next year’s edition in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Iceland, who made their World Cup bow in 2018, are the only smaller country to have reached the World Cup.

Cape Verde, who have reached two Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals since making their debut in that competition in 2013, are ranked 70th in the world.

What a moment for Cabo Verde! The Blue Sharks are going to the #FIFAWorldCup! @aramco | #WeAre26 pic.twitter.com/PPzHKGBb0a

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) October 13, 2025

They have finished top of Group D ahead of African heavyweights Cameroon, who will now need to navigate the inter-confederation play-offs in order to reach the World Cup for the ninth time.

Dailon Livramento, Willy Semedo and Stopira were the goalscorers for Cape Verde, and no matter the outcome of their campaign next year, they have etched their names in national history.