Cape Verde head coach Pedro Leitão Brito, popularly known as Bubista, has declared that his team will stay true to their identity when they face Spain in their historic opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Monday.
The Blue Sharks are set to make their long-awaited debut on football’s biggest stage in Atlanta, becoming one of Africa’s 10 representatives at the expanded tournament following an impressive qualification campaign.
Bubista Upbeat Ahead Spain Showdown
Despite facing one of the competition’s favourites in their first-ever World Cup fixture, Bubista remains confident his side can rise to the occasion.
The coach stressed that his players are focused on delivering a performance that reflects the team’s values, resilience, and the pride of the Cape Verdean people.
“We want to show everything we have prepared for. We want to compete and bring our identity,” Bubista was quoted by CAFonline.
“Being able to play these three matches with courage and determination is important for us, showing the world who we are as a team, but more importantly as a country.”
Cape Verde’s Remarkable Rise
Cape Verde’s rise has been one of African football’s most compelling stories in recent years. While respectful of the challenge posed by Spain, Bubista believes his side can rise to the occasion.
“We are aware of the difficulties, and we know how strong our opponents are. However, I believe the match will be competitive on the pitch,” he said.
Cape Verde will also face Saudi Arabia and Uruguay in their remaining Group H matches as they bid to secure a place in the knockout stages of the competition.
By Adeboye Amosu
