More Than The Score - Cape Verde qualify for their first ever Fifa World Cup - USA 2026

Download Cape Verde qualify for their first ever Fifa World Cup - USA 2026

Cape Verde have defied the odds to qualify for their first ever Fifa World Cup. The Blue Sharks are the second-smallest nation - after Iceland - to reach a World Cup after they beat Eswatini 3-0 at home in the decisive group game.

We hear from Cape Verde defender, Roberto 'Pico' Lopes. He says it's a dream come true for a nation which is made up of 10 islands in the Atlantic Ocean with a population of just over half a million people. We also hear from former Cape Verde international, Georges Santos, and journalist, Ali Howorth, who is in the capital Paraia and was in the stadium as they sealed qualification for the World Cup. They tell John Bennett they both shed tears following the nation's qualification and the team could cause more surprises at the tournament in 2026.

Published on Tuesday, 14th October 2025.

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