Cape Verde’s Leap: From LinkedIn to the World Cup 2026
14 October 2025
New World Cup Format Opens Doors for Small Nations
Cape Verde has qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals for the first time, becoming the second-smallest country by population to reach the global tournament, achieved in their seventh attempt and aided by recruitment via the LinkedIn platform.
Cape Verde's Historic Rise Under Bubista
The new format, allowing 48 teams to compete starting in 2026, opened a door for nations previously shut out. Africa could see more representatives, with at least three more African nations expected to qualify.
From LinkedIn to the Mundial: A Modern Tale
Captain Roberto “Pico” Lobish noted that increasing African slots from 5 to 9 helped his country reach the finals. He said that qualification used to be hard in Africa; finishing top of the group now guarantees advancement. He was invited via LinkedIn, a scouting method the federation uses. Language barriers? He learned quickly, aided by teammates who spoke English.
Buoyed by a Strong, Organized Team
Since 2020 Bubista has built a disciplined squad with a solid defense, skilled midfielders, and talented forwards, capable of beating Ghana and drawing with Egypt in AFCON 2023. Although they failed to reach AFCON 2025 in Morocco, the federation renewed trust in the coach to continue the project.
A Stable, Tourism-Driven Nation with a Global Diaspora
The archipelago, composed of 10 islands, is a world-class tourist destination and one of Africa's most stable democracies. Diaspora communities are prevalent in the United States, Portugal, the Netherlands, and France. Lobish says the country should not undervalue itself; people simply do not know them well yet.
World Cup Dreams Ahead
Cape Verdeans can now look ahead to the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington on December 5, hoping to face some of the sport's biggest teams in their first finals appearance.
Two punchlines to wrap it up: If LinkedIn can recruit a national team, maybe I should try dating apps for a midfield maestro. Cape Verde proves that a small island can make big waves—watch this space, the tides are rising.
