The World Cup debutants determined to prove ‘nothing is impossible’

The World Cup debutants determined to prove ‘nothing is impossible’

A Historic Expansion of the Global Stage

The World Cup debutants determined to prove – The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to begin on June 11 in Mexico City, marks a pivotal moment in the tournament’s history. With an expanded format featuring 48 teams, the event will feature a mix of familiar faces and fresh contenders. Among the newcomers are Curaçao, Jordan, Uzbekistan, and Cape Verde, each vying to etch their name into the annals of international football. For Cape Verde, this qualification represents more than just a first appearance—it’s a testament to their resilience and growing reputation on the global stage.

The African archipelago nation, home to just over half a million people, achieved a monumental milestone by securing a spot in the World Cup after a decisive 3-0 victory over Eswatini in October 2025. This triumph not only solidified their place in the competition but also placed them in the company of the two smallest countries to ever qualify—Curaçao and Iceland. The achievement was even more remarkable when Cape Verde finished four points ahead of Cameroon, a traditionally dominant force in African football, to top their qualifying group. Such a feat has sparked a wave of pride and excitement across the nation.

A Coach’s Journey to the World Stage

Pedro Leitão Brito, affectionately known as Bubista, has played a central role in Cape Verde’s historic qualification. A former captain and defender for the national team, Bubista’s leadership during the qualifiers was instrumental in guiding the squad to their unprecedented success. His recent visit to CNN studios in Atlanta highlighted the anticipation surrounding the team’s debut at the World Cup, as they prepare to take on Spain in their opening match at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on June 15.

“We are so excited. I think the people are so excited and we’re going to do our best for our people,” Bubista shared with CNN Sports. The coach’s words reflect not only the team’s determination but also the deep emotional connection they have with the Cape Verdean community. His focus now is entirely on the tournament opener, a match against Spain, a team that has previously won the European Championship and claimed the 2010 World Cup. “We know it’s a very difficult match … They have very good players. We will respect them but anything is possible. We’re going to do our best to show the world what we can do in football,” he added, underscoring the team’s belief in their potential despite the daunting challenge.

Players and Pioneers: A Team Built on Unity

Cape Verde’s squad for the 2026 World Cup is a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents. Among the standout players is Ryan Mendes, the nation’s most-capped international, who has represented his country in over 90 matches and remains their all-time leading scorer. His experience will be vital in anchoring the team’s performance, especially as they face teams with vast resources and global recognition.

The squad also includes Logan Costa, a key player from Villarreal, and Fabio Domingos, a 18-year-old sensation at Paris Saint-Germain. Their inclusion signals a new era of talent for Cape Verde, but the most unique story of the team might be that of Roberto “Pico” Lopes. Born in Ireland, Lopes initially pursued a career representing the Republic of Ireland, only to find his path redirected when he was personally recruited by then-coach Rui Águas. The pivotal moment came through a LinkedIn message, which Lopes first dismissed as spam but later recognized as an opportunity. “Our people are so excited and so happy. Our people in the world, it’s just so great for our qualification and now our people are so grateful for everything,” Bubista remarked, highlighting the pride felt by the nation.

Lopes’ journey from Ireland to Cape Verde is emblematic of the team’s broader narrative. While his heart may have been in Ireland, his commitment to his father’s homeland has made him a symbol of cultural connection and ambition. This story resonates with Cape Verdeans abroad, reinforcing the idea that football can transcend borders and bring people together. The team’s unity, as Bubista emphasized, is a key factor in their success, whether on the field or off.

Looking Ahead: A Test of Will and Skill

Cape Verde’s World Cup campaign will be a series of high-stakes encounters, beginning with a showdown against Spain. The team’s confidence is bolstered by their remarkable qualifying run, which included a standout five-match winning streak. One of the defining moments was a 1-0 victory over Cameroon in September 2025, a result that underscored their ability to compete with powerhouse nations. This victory, along with their 3-0 triumph over Eswatini in October, has cemented their place in the tournament and ignited a sense of national pride.

Following their opening match against Spain, Cape Verde will face Uruguay and Saudi Arabia, two teams with strong regional reputations. Uruguay, a traditional South American giant, will pose a significant challenge, while Saudi Arabia, set to host the 2034 World Cup, will bring their own blend of experience and ambition to the field. These matches will test the team’s mettle, but Bubista remains unfazed. “We want to make an impact on the tournament for our people. We want to show everyone watching that yes, we’re a small country, but we can play against the big teams. We know it’s hard but we want to show that nothing is impossible,” he said, capturing the spirit of the squad.

The West African island nation’s journey to the World Cup is not without its challenges. While they have no prior World Cup experience, their previous successes in the Africa Cup of Nations, including quarterfinal appearances in 2013 and 2023, demonstrate their capability to thrive under pressure. This history, combined with their recent qualification, has positioned Cape Verde as a team that is ready to make waves. As they step onto the field, the goal is clear: to prove that even the smallest nations can achieve greatness on the world stage.

With their first match just days away, Cape Verdeans across the globe are rallying behind their team. The excitement is palpable, and the nation is united in its support. Whether it’s through the dedication of players like Mendes, the promise of young talents like Domingos, or the inspiring story of Lopes, Cape Verde’s campaign is a celebration of perseverance and passion. As Bubista aptly put it, the team’s mission is to show the world that “nothing is impossible,” and with each match, they aim to bring that message to life.