Cape Verde is a success example in FIFA's plan FIFA president Gianni Infantino highlighted Cape Verde as a success story of the FIFA Forward program, which helped the national team qualify for the World Cup for the first time. In a video released by the entity, Infantino defended the creation of the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), a proposal that involves forming a company to manage the commercial rights of FIFA competitions, including the 2026 World Cup.

What is the FIFA Forward Enterprise? The FFE is a proposal aimed at increasing FIFA's revenue and expanding investments for the 211 national associations. According to Infantino, the goal is to raise FIFA Forward program transfers from US$8 million to US$20 million per federation in the next cycle. Associations can also request an additional US$20 million through the FIFA Fast Forward program, reaching a potential funding of US$40 million.

Why is UEFA criticizing the proposal? UEFA, led by Aleksander Ceferin, has been critical of the FFE proposal, arguing that the initiative would represent a change in the control of the sport. However, Infantino stated that FIFA will continue to govern football without any external interference. "The World Cup will remain FIFA's," he concluded.

What's next for Cape Verde? With Cape Verde currently in second place in the 2026 World Cup, with 3 points, 0 wins, 3 draws, and 0 losses in 3 games, and with 2 goals scored and 2 conceded, the team aims to maintain its performance and advance in the competition. The team is 4 points behind leader Spain and needs positive results to stay in the tournament.