Cape Verde could rewrite their own history by reaching the next FIFA World Cup in 2026 hosted in the USA, Canada and Mexico if they can win against Eswatini next week.
Cape Verde’s admirable fightback has them two points clear at the section’s summit. Libya now need a miracle to reach the next stage of qualifying.
The Mediterranean Knights exploded out of the blocks. Fadel Mansour played a crisp one-two down the right, and his cross was turned into his own net by the outstretched leg of Pico.
The Blue Sharks responded when Telmo Arcanjo headed home Jamiro Monteiro’s devilish delivery, but Ezzeddin El Maremi stabbed home to restore the hosts’ advantage.
A spectacular, swerving free-kick from El Maremi seemingly put the contest to bed, but an error from goalkeeper Murad Alwuheeshi gave Cabo Verde hope before Willy Semedo scrambled home a leveller.
They’ll host Eswatini at the Estádio Nacional de Cabo Verde stadium, and a win will surely see them making it to the 2026 World Cup as Group D winners.
Libya 3-3 Cabo Verde
Libya goals: Pico OG (2), El Maremi (42), Al-Shalwi (58)
Cabo Verde goals: Arcanjo (30), Lopes Cabral (76), Semedo (82)
Meanwhile,Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Madagascar and Niger claimed crucial wins in FIFA World Cup 26 qualifying as Angola, Comoros, Guinea-Bissau, Mali and Sierra Leone were eliminated.
