The Cape Verdean Football Federation (FCF) has set an ambitious goal: to be present in every finals stage of international competitions after the country’s historic debut at the 2026 World Cup. The Blue Sharks drew with Spain (0-0) and Uruguay (2-2) in the group stage before beating Argentina in the Round of 16 (3-2) after extra time, a run that put the nation on the global football map.
What did the FCF president say?
Mário Semedo, president of the FCF, made the ambition clear: "Yes, that’s the goal - to always be there." He also admitted frustration over missing the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations, when few expected it, but stressed that Cape Verde could already be favorites in the qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which kicks off in September. "Now everyone wants to beat Cape Verde. We have to be aware of that reality," he said, referring to the increased attention on the team after the World Cup.
The federation president renewed manager Pedro Brito "Bubista"’s contract before the 2026 World Cup and kept him on for upcoming campaigns, including the 2030 World Cup in Spain, Morocco, and Portugal. "Surely that’s the goal, but we know the risks. Bubista is now a highly respected coach," Semedo said, without confirming future talks but admitting that "those are possibilities we can’t ignore."
How was the World Cup success managed?
Managing victories proved trickier than losses, according to Semedo, because the newfound profile exposed the team to greater risks. "FIFA didn’t cover everything. We received millions, but we also had millions in expenses," he explained, citing travel, lodging, and logistics costs. The accounts aren’t closed yet, but the president believes the final balance will be invested in domestic football by year-end.
Investment in domestic competitions and youth development are now top priorities, with plans for a legal framework to regulate football schools. "It’s important to define the profile of people leading them," he said, also highlighting partnerships with the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) and federations from Senegal and Ivory Coast as key references.
What’s next for the Blue Sharks?
Pedro Brito "Bubista" has kept recruitment active, as seen in the FIFA Series matches in March in New Zealand, where new players were called up. "Even in those games, new players were called up. We’ll keep doing this," Semedo said, without naming names. The waiting list includes many talents who will now get chances.
The FCF president stressed the need to back on-field results with a strong off-field structure. "We have good contacts and strong ties with the FPF," he said, emphasizing that the goal is to use this momentum to grow sustainably.
The 2026 World Cup debut marked a turning point for Cape Verdean football. Now, the ambition is to turn that success into a constant presence in the finals of every major international competition.
