This article forms part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a partnership among leading media outlets from the 48 qualified nations. As the tournament approaches, starting on June 11, previews from three countries are being released daily.
The Ambition
“Let’s enjoy ourselves. We’ve made it to the World Cup, and now it’s time to share the joy.” – Dailon Livramento
The Blue Sharks of Cape Verde are diving into uncharted territory as they prepare for their inaugural World Cup, but they certainly shouldn’t be underestimated. The small archipelago located off the west coast of Africa began its World Cup journey with qualifiers in 2000. If any squad is equipped to withstand the pressures of such a dramatic ascent in global football, it’s Cape Verde. Their national motto, morabeza, translates to “no stress,” a mindset they will need as they face formidable opponents Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia in Group H.
Coach Pedro Leitão Brito, commonly referred to as Bubista, has assembled a diverse roster. The 26-player squad hails from 25 different clubs across 14 countries, featuring six players born in Rotterdam, which surpasses the number from Cape Verde’s own capital, Praia. For a nation shaped by immigration, navigating varied identities and languages is not a hurdle but rather a source of strength.
Cape Verde: Group H Match Schedule
15 June vs. Spain, Atlanta (12 PM local, 5 PM BST, 16 June 2 AM AEST)
21 June vs. Uruguay, Miami (6 PM local, 11 PM BST, 22 June 8 AM AEST)
26 June vs. Saudi Arabia (7 PM local, 27 June 1 AM BST, 27 June 10 AM AEST)
Bubista remarked on the importance of teamwork, stating, “Unity among individuals with diverse perspectives can only be achieved by honoring the uniqueness of each player.” This sentiment was evident when the team secured qualification before a lively crowd in Praia.
Having maintained a consistent lineup for nearly five years, the Blue Sharks balance a robust defensive approach with an island-inspired style of play. They feature talented forwards such as Ryan Mendes, Willy Semedo, and Jovane Cabral. “Being a small nation doesn’t mean we relinquish possession,” emphasized Pico Lopes, a centre-back for Shamrock Rovers, during an interview. “We possess quality and that killer instinct we desire in attack.”
One lingering concern for the team is the fitness of Logan Costa. The Villarreal centre-back is arguably the squad’s top talent but has yet to take the field this season following an ACL tear last summer.
The Coach
Bubista’s background is rooted in modest beginnings. His father juggled jobs as a lift operator and a shepherd, while his mother devoted herself to raising their ten children on Boa Vista island. “The family prioritized education, ensuring all their children received schooling and even purchasing a home in Mindelo [on São Vicente island] for the boys to study,” shared Bubista’s cousin, Paulo Santos.
However, Bubista’s passion for football ultimately prevailed, leading him to play professionally in Portugal, Spain, and Angola, where he captained the Blue Sharks for nearly a decade. Known as “the silent captain” during his playing days, Bubista is a man of few words, demanding discipline from his players. His insistence on using only Creole during international duties has helped cultivate a cohesive team over his six-year tenure. “It’s our national team’s official language,” he noted. “Sometimes players attempt to communicate in other languages, but I prohibit it to preserve our Cape Verdean identity.”
Star Player
In 2012, Leicester scout Steve Walsh ventured to Le Havre, France, to scout young talent, aiming to find a gem from the prestigious academy. Although he had his sights set on Ryan Mendes, who would go on to join Lille as Eden Hazard’s successor, it was Riyad Mahrez who eventually caught his eye. Despite a significant ankle injury hampering Mendes’ club career, he remains the standout player for the Blue Sharks, serving as captain and leading scorer. At 36, Mendes could potentially become the first player in Cape Verdean history to reach 100 international caps. “Ryan has been a consistent presence, always delivering when needed and scoring goals,” remarked Pico.
Player to Watch
Dailon Livramento has made an impressive impact on the national team since joining the Blue Sharks just over two years ago, securing his place as a legend. He netted four goals during the qualifying rounds, including two in Angola and the decisive goal against Cameroon, as well as the opener against Eswatini, propelling the country to the World Cup. His arrival filled a crucial void for a team rich in talented wingers but lacking a central striker. Born in Rotterdam to Cape Verdean singer Marizia, Livramento is also a musician, and his brother Jerzy is part of the successful Dutch hip-hop group Broederliefde, who performed at the celebratory event held with fans in Praia after qualification.
Unsung Hero
Kevin Pina has established himself in Russia, leading Krasnodar to its first league title in 2025. Signing with the Bulls from the Portuguese second division, Pina remains relatively unknown outside Cape Verde. Alongside Deroy Duarte, he anchors the midfield, performing the essential tasks that allow the Blue Sharks’ offensive talents to shine. While not overly prolific in scoring, the few goals he contributes are often spectacular.
Predicted Starting XI
Fan Expectations
Despite the necessity of paying a $15,000 bond to enter the United States (waived in May for FIFA pass holders, but too late for many), one might assume Blue Sharks supporters would be scarce. However, that assumption is misguided. Over 500,000 Cape Verdeans reside in the US, roughly matching the population on the islands, and they will undoubtedly show up in full force, decked out in blue shirts, carrying flags, donning blue shark-themed hats, and bringing good vibes and exceptional music, Cape Verde’s most celebrated export. The music genre morna, from Eugénio Tavares to Cesária Évora and Marizia, encapsulates the experience of leaving the islands and representing them abroad, making it ideal for a World Cup setting. Soraia Ramos’s song Nha Terra has been embraced as an anthem for the tournament.
US Relations and Fan Sentiments
“Many fans expressed a desire to attend, but have indicated they won’t go because of Trump,” stated Andreia Levy, leader of the 12Tubaron, Cape Verde’s sole supporters’ club. As a nation rooted in the Non-Alignment Movement and heavily dependent on remittances from its extensive US diaspora, managing relations with the US is a delicate balancing act for Cape Verde’s politicians and citizens. However, being named on Trump’s controversial list of ‘Immigrant Welfare Recipient Rates by Country of Origin,’ combined with the unpopular war in Iran and issues faced by supporters entering the US, has sparked outrage. “Numerous individuals are boycotting the US. If it weren’t for Cape Verde, I wouldn’t even consider going to the US,” Levy remarked. “But we have to support the team.”
