In every World Cup, there’s an underdog.
It’s always a memorable storyline, but in 2026, Cape Verde stole the show.
The island nation off the west coast of Africa has a population of about half a million and was ranked 67th in the world. It is the second-smallest country by land area ever to qualify for soccer’s biggest event.
“Before the ball was kicked, we were given 1% chance and to show that it was possible what 1% can do in a group where you have Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia,” Cape Verde center back Pico Lopes recently told CNN Sports. “It was just that sort of feeling of ‘We belong here,’ like we deserve to be here.”
The soccer minnows were immediately confronted with the big task of facing world No. 2 Spain in their opener. Still, the Blue Sharks shocked everyone after holding the future champion to a 0-0 draw.
