Cape Verde’s journey at the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to an end in the Round of 32 after a dramatic 3-2 defeat to defending champions Argentina at the end of the second period of extra time.
The African nation’s performances throughout the tournament exceeded expectations. During the group stage, Cape Verde held tournament favorites Spain to a draw. They also avoided defeat against the other teams in their group, with both Uruguay and Saudi Arabia unable to overcome them.
Despite the loss to La Albiceleste, Cape Verde’s performance earned widespread praise from several former international footballers. Many described Bubista’s squad as the tournament’s most impressive debutants.
The first tribute came from former England international Daniel Sturridge, who described the African side as “true champions” despite not lifting the trophy.
“Cape Verde may not have won the trophy, but they are already winners,” he said.
Former Germany defender Mats Hummels shared a similar view.
“Cape Verde. That was the most impressive performance I have ever seen from a team that was truly underestimated. I have enormous respect for them,” he said.
Former Norway striker Jan Åge Fjørtoft also expressed his admiration for the national team of the island nation, which has a population of around 500,000.
Fjørtoft said that holding both the reigning world champions and the reigning European champions to draws in regulation time was an extraordinary achievement.
“Massive respect for Cape Verde! They managed to hold the reigning world champions (Argentina) and the reigning European champions (Spain) to draws. They are still unbeaten in regulation time at the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” he said.
Meanwhile, former Sky Sports reporter Melissa Reddy said Cape Verde’s remarkable campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup deserves to be remembered as one of football’s most inspiring stories.***
