Cape Verde’s Coach Celebrates Team’s World Cup Journey

Cape Verde's head coach Pedro "Bubista" Brito has praised the strength, teamwork, and spirit of his players after the Blue Sharks managed a thrilling 2-2 draw against two-time world champions Uruguay. This result brings them close to a historic spot in the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

As they make their debut at football’s biggest event, Cape Verde has quickly become one of the highlights of the tournament. They started strong with a goalless draw against Spain in their first match. Now, they followed that up with another solid showing against Uruguay in Miami. They remain in good position to qualify for the Round of 32 before their crucial final Group H match against Saudi Arabia.

At his post-match press conference, Bubista spoke about how important Cape Verde’s World Cup journey is, beyond just the scores. "From the beginning, we came here to compete at the highest level," Bubista said. "What makes us happy is not only the results, but being able to show our identity as a team, our spirit, our unity and our ability to fight back."

The Blue Sharks surprised their famous South American rivals twice. Even after giving up the lead before halftime, they showed great determination to come back and earn another important point.

For a nation competing in the World Cup for the first time, their performances against Spain and Uruguay have gained much admiration. It has also strengthened the belief that Cape Verde belongs on this big stage.

Bubista mentioned that getting to the knockout rounds has always been a main goal for the team. "We are here to compete and to chase a dream, which is qualification for the second round," he stated. "That has always been our mentality. We respect all our opponents and we know their qualities, but we are here with the clear objective of fighting for qualification."

While Cape Verde's players played well again, one of the most touching moments took place in the stands. For the first time at this World Cup, veteran goalkeeper Vozinha’s mother, Ana Candida Evora, was there to watch him play after finally arriving in the United States.

Her arrival came just days after Vozinha became a global sensation for making seven incredible saves against Spain. This performance earned him the Player of the Match award and led to a huge jump in his popularity. His Instagram followers reportedly grew from about 50,000 to more than 15 million in just a few days.

After watching Cape Verde draw with Uruguay, an emotional Evora shared her feelings with FIFA. "It was so emotional. My heart was in my mouth. But today luck was on our side," she said. "Our hearts are with our country, with those who believed after the first game. We have faith. Faith and hope. I am proud of Cabo Verde."

Evora shared that her trip to the U.S. was a significant personal milestone. "I didn’t even have a passport. It is the first time I have left Cabo Verde," she said.

The proud mother also reflected on her son’s amazing rise from being a little-known goalkeeper to one of the standout stars of the World Cup. "It’s wonderful, absolutely wonderful. I don’t really have the words to describe it. He has been through so much. It’s hugely emotional, but he had a good game and he’ll do it again. You have to keep going right until the end."

With two points from their first two matches, growing confidence, and the support of their entire nation, Cape Verde now goes into their last group game against Saudi Arabia. Another good result could lead to one of the greatest underdog stories in World Cup history. For Bubista’s team, the dream is still alive and closer than ever.