Overview

• A victory away to Libya on Wednesday would secure Cape Verde’s first-ever place at the 2026 tournament.
• If they fail to win in Libya, a home match against winless Eswatini on Monday provides a second chance to clinch qualification.
• A 1-0 upset of Cameroon in September ignited exuberant celebrations in Praia, including a pitch invasion after the final whistle.
• Defender Steven Moreira described widespread pride on the islands, and the low-profile, diaspora-built squad carries a modest combined market value.
• Villarreal center-back Logan Costa remains out with a July cruciate ligament injury but is expected to return before the June–July 2026 finals.