2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Cape Verde past Cameroon to top Group D in historical feat

Dalion Livramento etched his name into Cape Verdean football folklore on Tuesday with a sensational solo strike that earned the Blue Sharks a 1-0 victory over Cameroon in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

The forward produced the decisive moment in the 54th minute, muscling Carlos Baleba off the ball in his own half before powering through the Indomitable Lions’ defence and coolly slotting past Andre Onana from inside the box.

Cameroon, five-time African champions, struggled to muster a response. Bryan Mbeumo had a penalty appeal waved away, while goalkeeper Vozinha ensured Cape Verde’s clean sheet with a vital stoppage-time save from Flavien Boyomo’s volley.

At the final whistle, scenes of unbridled joy erupted at the Estádio Nacional de Cabo Verde as jubilant fans stormed the pitch, waving flags and lighting flares in celebration of what could be the nation’s most famous footballing triumph.

The win leaves Cape Verde four points clear of the Indomitable Lions at the top of Group D with just two matches remaining. Three more points from their upcoming fixtures — away to Libya and at home against Eswatini — would secure a maiden World Cup berth for the Atlantic archipelago of under 600,000 people.

For a nation that has already made its mark with impressive Africa Cup of Nations campaigns, qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States would be a historic leap onto football’s grandest stage — and at the expense of Cameroon, Africa’s record World Cup participants with eight appearances.