FIFA World Cup 2026
Cape Verde at the FIFA World Cup 2026
Overview
Cabo Verde is an Atlantic archipelago republic west of Senegal, of volcanic origin with a Creole‑inflected Portuguese culture, dry landscapes and Praia on Santiago as its capital.
Cape Verde are making their first FIFA World Cup appearance in 2026. All-time, Ryan Mendes leads Cape Verde's senior men's scoring list with 8 goals.
At World Cup 2026, Cape Verde line up in Group H as CAF representatives from Africa. Group-stage fixtures against Spain, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay open a competitive first-round schedule.
Cape Verde's Blue Sharks qualified for their first World Cup in 2026, representing one of the tournament's great underdog stories from the Atlantic islands.
Quick facts
- Capital
- Praia
- Continent
- Africa
- Federation
- CAF (Africa)
- Group
- H
- FIFA ranking (Nov 2025)
- #68
- World Cup titles
- 0
Geography
- Founded / established
- 1975
- Population
- 598,000
- Languages
- Portuguese (official); Cape Verdean Creole widely spoken
- Currency
- Cape Verdean escudo (CVE)
- Area
- 4,033 km²
- Highest point
- Pico do Fogo (2,829 m)
- Climate
- Arid tropical trade-wind climate with cooling elevation
- Land borders
- None (island nation)
Football facts
- Appearances
- 0
- Best result
- Group stage (2026)
- Debut
- 2026
2026 World Cup kits
Home kit
Main color: blue
World Cup history
0 World Cup appearances
| Year | Result |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Qualified (2026) |
Frequently asked questions
- Has Cape Verde ever won the FIFA World Cup?
- No. Cape Verde have not won the men's World Cup; 2026 will be their first appearance at the finals.
- Which group is Cape Verde in at World Cup 2026?
- Cape Verde are in Group H. Group opponents include Spain, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay.
- What is the capital of Cape Verde?
- The capital city is Praia.
- Which FIFA confederation does Cape Verde belong to?
- Cape Verde compete under CAF (Africa).
- Is 2026 Cape Verde's first World Cup?
- Yes. 2026 will be Cape Verde's first men's FIFA World Cup appearance.
- Who is Cape Verde's all-time leading goal scorer?
- Ryan Mendes leads Cape Verde's senior men's national team with 8 goals in FIFA-recognised matches.