Cape Verde, the tiny archipelago off the west African coast, are preparing for their first World Cup appearance after a remarkable rise. The Blue Sharks, as they are known, will face Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia in Group H. Their national slogan, 'morabeza', which roughly translates to 'no stress', encapsulates the relaxed mentality they hope to bring to the tournament.
The squad, assembled by coach Pedro Leitão Brito, known as Bubista, is a diverse group representing 25 clubs from 14 countries. Notably, more players were born in Rotterdam (six) than in the capital, Praia. Bubista emphasised the importance of unity, stating: 'Unity among people with different mindsets and ways of life can only be achieved by respecting the uniqueness of each player.'
The team has been together for around five years and is known for its physical defending and island-inspired attacking football, led by technical forwards such as Ryan Mendes, Willy Semedo and Jovane Cabral. Defender Pico Lopes said: 'Just because we’re a small nation doesn’t mean we give up possession. We always have that quality and sort of killer instinct we want in the attacking areas.'
A potential concern is the fitness of centre-back Logan Costa, who plays for Villarreal and is yet to feature this season after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament last summer. Costa is considered the team's one elite player.
Captain Ryan Mendes, at 36, remains a key figure and could become the first Cape Verdean to earn 100 caps. Forward Dailon Livramento has made an instant impact since joining the national team just over two years ago, scoring crucial goals in qualifying, including the winner against Cameroon.
