Cape Verde Names Squad for AFCON Qualifiers: New Coach Era
Cape Verde’s newly appointed national football coach, Humberto Bettencourt, has signaled a message of continuity in his first squad selection since the Blue Sharks’ historic 2026 World Cup run. Unveiling a 26-man roster on Wednesday, Bettencourt made only two adjustments to the squad that captivated the world in North America.
Building on a World Cup Legacy
Stepping into the role previously held by Pedro Brito, affectionately known as ‘Bubista,’ Bettencourt acknowledged the weight of his new position. Addressing the media in Praia, he dismissed the notion of being intimidated by his predecessor’s success.
“This new journey will be demanding; however, we do not take on this role feeling pressure, but rather responsibility, because it is something we love to do,” Bettencourt said. “Above pressure is the responsibility and pride in representing the national team and Cape Verde.”
The Blue Sharks are coming off a fairy-tale World Cup debut. In 2026, they shocked the footballing world by advancing past the group stage following draws against eventual champions Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia. Their journey ended in a narrow, heartbreaking 3-2 extra-time loss to Lionel Messi’s Argentina in the Round of 32.
Squad Changes and New Faces
Bettencourt has opted for stability as the team transitions into the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. The two notable absences from the World Cup squad are veteran Ianique Tavares ‘Stopira’ (Torreense) and Yannick Semedo (Al-Jabalain).
Taking their places are Ayoni Santos, the promising talent from PSV Eindhoven, and José Tavares ‘Djê’ of Santa Clara. The inclusion of Djê bolsters the Portuguese league representation alongside Vitória de Guimarães midfielder Telmo Arcanjo.
“There are no permanent decisions,” Bettencourt clarified. “This call-up is for this double-header. Everything is open; we continue to monitor all players and count on them for the future. Unfortunately, we cannot bring everyone.”
The Road to AFCON 2027
Cape Verde begins its quest for continental glory in Group K, alongside Mali, Rwanda, and Liberia. The Blue Sharks face a stern test away against Mali on September 25 in Bamako, before returning home to Praia to host Rwanda on September 29.
Full 26-Man Squad List:
- Goalkeepers: Carlos dos Santos (San Diego FC), Márcio da Rosa (UTA Arad), Vozinha (Colo-Colo).
- Defenders: Logan Costa (Villarreal), Kelvin Pires (SJK), Diney (Sharjah FC), Pico (Shamrock Rovers), Sidny Lopes Cabral (Trabzonspor), Wagner Pina (Trabzonspor), Steven Moreira (Columbus Crew), João Paulo Fernandes (FCSB).
- Midfielders: Deroy Duarte (Ludogorets), Kevin Pina (FK Krasnodar), Djê (Santa Clara), Ayoni Santos (PSV Eindhoven), Telmo Arcanjo (Vitória de Guimarães), Jamiro Monteiro (NEC), Laros Duarte (Puskás FC).
- Forwards: Dailon Livramento (Verona), Willy Semedo (United FC), Jovane Cabral (Grêmio), Ryan Mendes (Renaissance de Berkane), Gilson Benchimol (Akron Togliatti), Garry Rodrigues (Limassol), Hélio Varela (Maccabi Tel Aviv), Nuno da Costa (Antalyaspor).
Image: Pexels – Franco Monsalvo
