The Tubarões Azuis are set to host Liberia at the Estádio Nacional Tubarões Azuis in Praia, marking the beginning of a critical two-match series for the national team. Currently, Cabo Verde has zero points from two losses in their first two qualifying matches, as do their opponents, Liberia. A win is imperative for both teams to keep their hopes alive for a spot in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. The team is led by coach Humberto Bettencourt, who has called up 26 players for the double-header.
Cabo Verde is part of Group K in the CAN 2027 qualifiers, competing against Mali, Rwanda, and Liberia. The team has had a tough start, losing 3-1 to Mali and 2-1 to Rwanda in their first two matches. With only six matches to play in the qualifying round, Bettencourt emphasized that the upcoming matches against Liberia are decisive. The coach expressed confidence in his team's abilities, stating they are motivated and united. He views these matches as the start of a new cycle of victories and achievements for the team.
The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled to take place from June 19 to July 17, 2027, and will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. According to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) regulations, the top two teams from each group will qualify directly for the tournament. Bettencourt highlighted that while there are still mathematical possibilities for qualification, the team cannot afford to wait and see how things unfold. He stressed the importance of securing six points from the upcoming matches.
The team's preparation for the Liberia matches has seen some changes, with six new players called up, including Leandro Andrade, who had previously taken a break from international football. Andrade, who plays for Polissya Zhytomyr in the Ukrainian top division, has rejoined the team after a hiatus. Bettencourt explained that the changes are part of a natural renewal process, taking into account player availability and fitness levels. He denied that the changes are directly related to the team's previous results.
Key absences from the team include Roberto "Pico" Lopes, Jovane Cabral, Garry Rodrigues, Gilson Benchimol, and Telmo Arcanjo due to injuries, while Kelvin Pires was left out for technical reasons. Newcomers to the squad include David Moreira, Yuran Fernandes, Elson Mendes, Derenseli Fernandes, and Ieltsin Camões. Bettencourt expressed understanding of the fans' disappointment following the team's recent performances but emphasized the team's resilience and determination to overcome the current challenges.
The team's captain, or rather the coach, Humberto Bettencourt, conveyed his and the team's commitment to achieving a positive outcome. He acknowledged the fans' frustration but assured that the team shares their disappointment and is working hard to turn the situation around. Bettencourt expressed his personal desire for the team to succeed, stating that no one wants the team to win more than he and the players do.
In related news, Cabo Verde has been nominated in four categories for the CAF Awards 2026, which recognize the best in African football. The nominations are a testament to the country's growing presence in the sport. The team will look to build on this momentum as they face Liberia in their crucial qualifier. With a strong squad and renewed determination, the Tubarões Azuis are poised to give it their all in the upcoming matches.
Key points
- The Tubarões Azuis must win both matches against Liberia to keep their hopes alive for a spot in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
