Cape Verde finished second in Group H during its first World Cup appearance and will face Argentina on July 3 in Miami. The team recorded draws against Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia. Coach Bubista emphasized belief and hard work following the results.
“Cape Verde qualify for World Cup Round of 32, set up date with Argentina”
Read at Al Jazeera →“Cape Verde into World Cup knockouts: The lessons for small nations dreaming big”
Read at CNA →“Cape Verde makes World Cup history by becoming smallest nation to reach knockout round”
Read at New York Post →Cape Verde's run highlights potential for smaller Global South nations when opportunities arise.
“Structural advantages of wealthier federations and need for equitable development”
Cape Verde succeeded through discipline and self-reliance rather than external aid.
“Merit-based outcomes and national pride over narratives of historical grievance”
The result shows individual agency and voluntary effort can overcome limited resources.
“Open competition without geographic or political barriers”
All three views convert ordinary group-stage survival into ideological confirmation while ignoring low-quality results and the expanded format.
“Tactical execution and set-piece dependence receive no scrutiny”
Ratings by MBFC