π¨π» Cape Verde
World Cup 2026 | Group H | Power rating | World rank #42
About Cape Verde
Cape Verde are one of the smallest nations to reach the expanded World Cup. A CAF side, they enter the 2026 World Cup rated 1631 -42nd of the 48 teams -in Group H.
An island side whose rise is among the feel-good stories of the 48-team era. Tight-knit and organised, competing through unity and collective effort.
Drawn alongside Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia, their toughest group test on paper is the meeting with Spain. The model lists them 2nd in the group and to reach the Round of 32.
Detailed team profile
Overview
Cape Verde are a historic debutant with a compact, resilient team identity and dangerous wide and forward options.
World Cup history
Cape Verde are appearing at the World Cup for the first time. Their qualification is one of the landmark stories of the expanded 48-team tournament.
Recent form
Cape Verde qualified from CAF Group D and sealed the place with a 3-0 win over Eswatini.
2026 World Cup angle
Group H is difficult against Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia, but the Saudi Arabia match gives Cape Verde a plausible route to meaningful points. For a debutant, even a Round of 32 push would be historic.
Group-stage results & analysis
| Match | Score | Cape Verde model share |
|---|---|---|
| vs πͺπΈ Spain FT | 0 : 0 | -- |
| vs πΊπΎ Uruguay FT | 2 : 2 | -- |
| vs πΈπ¦ Saudi Arabia | 1 : 1 | 25% |