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The Blue Sharks of Cape Verde are on the cusp of achieving a football miracle as they host Eswatini on Monday evening in the final round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup African Qualifiers (Group D). A victory would confirm their place among Africa’s representatives at the next World Cup — the first in the nation’s history.
📊 Group D Situation
After nine rounds, Cape Verde lead Group D with 20 points, followed closely by Cameroon with 18. Their thrilling 3–3 draw away to Libya kept them two points clear at the top, setting up a dream finale on home soil.
With only one automatic qualification spot available per group, Cape Verde need a win to guarantee passage to the World Cup. A draw could still be enough if Cameroon fail to beat Angola, but Bubista’s men are determined to decide their fate themselves.
💙 The Golden Generation of Cape Verde
Over the past decade, Cape Verde have evolved from underdogs to genuine contenders in African football. Their current squad is a blend of experience and talent, featuring Ryan Mendes, Jamiro Monteiro, Kenny Rocha Santos, and goalkeeper Vózinha. The team’s fluid style, pressing intensity, and belief have made them one of the feel-good stories of the qualifiers.
🇸🇿 Eswatini’s Final Stand
For Eswatini, this match is a matter of pride. Despite sitting last in the group with three points from three draws, coach Dom Dlamini’s men will look to challenge the group leaders and earn a morale-boosting result. Their compact defense and hard work could make them tricky opponents if Cape Verde lose focus.
⚔️ Tactical Preview
Cape Verde will likely stick to their attacking 4-3-3 setup, with Mendes and Rodrigues leading the charge from the wings. Expect them to apply early pressure and maintain a high tempo, aiming to score quickly and settle nerves. Eswatini, meanwhile, will rely on deep defensive lines and hope to exploit spaces on the counter.
🎉 A Nation Awaits
For the island nation of just over half a million people, this game represents more than football—it’s a symbol of unity, progress, and national pride. The atmosphere in Estádio Nacional de Cabo Verde is expected to be electric, as fans dream of hearing their anthem played on the global stage in 2026.
🕊 Prediction
Cape Verde have everything to play for and all the momentum on their side. Unless Eswatini produce an unexpected shock, the Blue Sharks should cruise to victory.
Predicted Score: Cape Verde 4 – 1 Eswatini