The Chinese Football Association (CFA) officially denied reports that it had rejected an invitation for an international friendly against Cape Verde. The Cape Verde national team, which made history by qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, became a sensation in Chinese football after its performance in the tournament.
What happened?
The CFA issued a statement saying it had not received any formal proposal from the Cape Verde Football Federation (FCF) for a friendly match. According to the Chinese body, there was only preliminary contact from the Chinese Embassy in Cape Verde on June 23, informing about the FCF's interest in organizing a friendly in China.
Why it matters for Cape Verde?
The Cape Verde team, led by 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha, became a phenomenon at the 2026 World Cup. The goalkeeper stood out by securing a goalless draw against Spain, making seven saves. The team's performance, the smallest in the tournament in terms of population and size, won fans in China and around the world.
What comes next?
The CFA stated that the Chinese national team is focused on preparing for the 2027 Asian Cup but maintains an open stance on international exchanges. The FCF, for its part, has already signaled interest in friendly matches not only with the men's team but also with the women's and youth teams (U17, U19, and U23).
The controversy arose after statements by FCF vice president Paulo Santos on June 25, who said the federation would be "very happy to accept" an invitation from China. The news was distorted by the media, leading to speculation that China had rejected the invitation.
