World Cup 2026 · West Africa
Cape Verde
The Blue Sharks
Group H · First ever World Cup - historic debut for the Blue Sharks
Tournament Stats
1
World Cup Appearances
-
Finals Reached
#49
Ranking
1
Participations
Team Overview
Cape Verde make their first ever appearance at a FIFA World Cup - the greatest achievement in the history of their football. The Blue Sharks have established themselves as a respected African nation through AFCON campaigns, and now arrive on the grandest stage. Led by all-time top scorer Ryan Mendes and talented defender Logan Costa of Villarreal, Cape Verde will be determined to make the most of their historic debut in Group H against Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.
Tournament Fixtures
| Date | Match | Venue | Kick-off (UK) | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tue 16 Jun | Saudi ArabiavsCape Verde | AT&T Stadium, Arlington, USA | 00:00 | Find Screenings |
| Mon 22 Jun | SpainvsCape Verde | SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles, USA | 20:00 | Find Screenings |
| Sun 28 Jun | Uruguayvs |
Players to Watch
One to Watch
Logan Costa
Defender
Villarreal
Villarreal's commanding centre-back who brings LaLiga pedigree and leadership to Cape Verde's defence.
One to Watch
Ryan Mendes
Forward
İğdır FK
Cape Verde's all-time top scorer and the iconic figurehead of their historic World Cup journey.
One to Watch
Jamiro Monteiro
Midfielder
PEC Zwolle
Experienced midfielder whose energy, creativity and leadership are central to Cape Verde's style.
One to Watch
Garry Rodrigues
Winger
Apollon Limassol
Experienced winger whose pace, directness and technical quality make him dangerous in wide areas.
Cape Verde Football Culture
Cape Verdean Cuisine
Cachupa, caldo de peixe, and pastel com o diabo dentro. The tastes of the Blue Sharks.
Morna & Funaná
Morna melodies and funaná rhythms - Cape Verde's unique musical heritage on the world stage.
Blue Sharks Legacy
From AFCON regulars to World Cup debutants. Cape Verde's historic journey to 2026.
Cape Verdean Communities
Join Cape Verdean fans across the UK for their team's historic World Cup debut.
Watch Cape Verde at World Cup 2026
Register free and we'll send you match-day alerts, venue details, and watch-party info for every The Blue Sharks fixture.
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