Cape Verde at World Cup 2026
Cape Verde at the 2026 World Cup
Cape Verde qualified by winning CAF Group D on 13 October 2025, securing their maiden World Cup spot with a dominant qualifying campaign. Leitão Brito's setup balances defensive solidity with creative midfield play, a blueprint designed to compete in a group headlined by Spain's technical dominance.
Cabo Verde in Goal Rush
📋 Full Squad (26)
Manager: Pedro Leitão Brito · Formation: 4-3-3
Goalkeepers
Defenders
Midfielders
Forwards
Group Stage
Upcoming Matches
Form & Qualifying
Leitão Brito's side conceded just eight goals through CAF qualifying, a defensive record built on strong organisation and composure in decisive moments. That solidity will be tested in Group H, but it's the foundation Cape Verde will lean on against Spain, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.
Other Tier 5 Teams
£4m per team in Goal Rush
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Cape Verde's 26-player squad
Pedro Leitão Brito's squad balances experience with youth across all lines. Captain Ryan Mendes leads the forward group, while the midfield provides creative support through technical players. The defensive foundation is built on proven European-based talent, giving Cape Verde a competitive base for their historic first World Cup campaign.
Cape Verde's Group H fixtures
Cape Verde's three Group H fixtures begin with Spain on 15 June at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, followed by Uruguay on 21 June at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens and Saudi Arabia on 26 June at NRG Stadium in Houston.
How far can Cabo Verde go at the World Cup?
Cape Verde's Tier 5 price and Group H draw reflect their status as first-time World Cup competitors. Spain will be prohibitive, but Saudi Arabia and Uruguay offer realistic targets. The squad's experience and defensive discipline from qualifying suggest Cape Verde can be competitive, even if progression remains a long shot.