Cape Verde national football team is preparing for its World Cup 2026 debut, which kicks off on June 11. Defender Stopira has expressed confidence that the Cape Verde team can achieve something big in their first-ever World Cup appearance. At 38 years old, Stopira is one of the players selected by coach Bubista for the team's maiden World Cup voyage. The tournament will take place between June 11 and July 19 in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with Cape Verde inserted into Group H, where they will face Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia. Stopira wished Portugal good luck and scheduled a meeting for the final stages. Cape Verde secured direct qualification for the world's top national team competition on October 13, 2025, after winning Group D of the African qualifying phase. The ambition is to work and prepare for the start of the World Cup to do the best possible. I know we can achieve something big in the World Cup, Stopira assured. I am certain that we will dignify and honor our country with the greatest pride possible for our people, the experienced defender also guaranteed. The Cape Verdean team has a long road ahead, but with Stopira's confidence and determination, they can surprise their opponents and make a good campaign in the 2026 World Cup.