Cape Verde is close to World Cup qualification after defeating Cameroon. Senegal rallied to beat DR Congo, while Nigeria drew with South Africa, hindering their chances. Ivory Coast drew with Gabon. Only group winners qualify directly; second-placed teams have a playoff opportunity.
Cape Verde is on the cusp of achieving a monumental feat: qualifying for their first-ever FIFA World Cup. The island nation, with a population of just under 600,000, stands tantalizingly close to making their debut on the world's biggest stage after a stunning 1-0 victory over African powerhouse Cameroon. Dalion Livramento's second-half goal in Praia sent shockwaves through the continent and has put the Blue Sharks in a commanding position in Group D.
Image source, Getty ImagesCape Verde, an island nation of just under 600,000 inhabitants, could make their World Cup finals debut next year
The Blue Sharks now sit atop their group, four points ahead of the Indomitable Lions with just two matches remaining. The victory was a moment of pure jubilation, with fans storming the pitch to celebrate a win that could rewrite the nation's footballing history.
Livramento's decisive goal came in the 54th minute, a moment of individual brilliance that showcased his tenacity and skill. He dispossessed Carlos Baleba in Cameroon's half, surged through the heart of the defense, and calmly slotted the ball past Andre Onana from 14 yards out. Cameroon, despite their pedigree, struggled to mount a significant response, with Bryan Mbeumo's penalty appeal waved away and Vozinha, the Cape Verdean goalkeeper, denying Flavien Boyomo's late volley.
Cape Verde's recent performances in the Africa Cup of Nations, reaching the quarter-finals in both 2013 and 2023, have demonstrated their potential. However, reaching the World Cup would represent an unprecedented achievement for the nation. Their path to the finals in Canada, Mexico, and the United States is clear: secure three points from their remaining matches against Libya (away) and Eswatini (home).
Elsewhere in African World Cup qualifying, Senegal staged an extraordinary comeback to defeat DR Congo 3-2 in Kinshasa. Trailing 2-0 after goals from Cedric Bakambu and Yoane Wissa, the Teranga Lions roared back with Pape Gueye, Nicolas Jackson, and Pape Matar Sarr finding the net. The win propelled Senegal to the top of Group B, two points ahead of DR Congo. Sudan's hopes dwindled after a 1-0 defeat to Togo.
Ivory Coast maintained their narrow lead in Group F with a goalless draw against Gabon. The reigning continental champions, who last appeared at the World Cup in 2014, were fortunate to escape with a point after Shavy Babicka's late strike hit the post.
Nigeria's chances of automatic qualification suffered a significant blow as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Group C leaders South Africa. William Troost-Ekong's own goal put South Africa ahead, but Calvin Bassey equalized for the Super Eagles. The result leaves Nigeria six points behind South Africa, with their hopes hanging by a thread, although a potential points deduction for South Africa for fielding an ineligible player could offer a lifeline.
Image source, ReutersMohau Nkota helped South Africa to a crucial point against Nigeria
Egypt, too, missed an opportunity to secure their place, drawing goallessly with Burkina Faso. Only the nine group winners are guaranteed a spot at the finals, with the best four second-placed teams entering playoffs for an intercontinental tournament.
The drama continues to unfold across the continent, with Cape Verde's historic quest taking center stage. Will they hold their nerve and finally book their ticket to the World Cup?