World Cup 2026: Cape Verde will have to wait a little longer

Cape Verde has yet to secure its ticket to the 2026 World Cup. Traveling to Tripoli, the Blue Sharks were held to a dramatic 3-3 draw by Libya this Wednesday, October 8, after an absolutely wild match.

The Libyans struck first, stunning their opponents in the opening minute with an own goal by Pico. Telmo Arcanjo brought Cape Verde back into the game before halftime (29th), but Libya regained the lead and then hammered home a long-range free kick (76th).

Trailing 3-1, Cape Verde found the determination to fight back. Willy Semedo reignited hope for his side (82nd), setting up a breathless finale in which the Cape Verdeans had three clear-cut chances... but couldn't find the decisive winner.

With this draw, Cape Verde sits on 20 points, two ahead of Cameroon. Pedro Brito “Bubista” and his men will play for a historic qualification on October 13 against Eswatini, the bottom side in the group.

Aliou Toundé |

Editorfr