Cape Verde vs Eswatini Match Preview Prediction Team News and Lineups

In a highly anticipated World Cup Qualifying clash, Cape Verde will face Eswatini at the Estadio Nacional de Cabo Verde on Monday evening. This match marks the final fixture in Group D of the African qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Cape Verde vs Eswatini: Match Preview

Cape Verde comes into this game leading Group D with 20 points from nine matches. They are two points ahead of second-placed Cameroon. A victory against Eswatini will guarantee Cape Verde’s historic qualification for the World Cup, which would be a significant moment in the nation’s football history.

Under the guidance of coach Bubista, the Blue Sharks have performed remarkably well in the qualifiers. Their record includes six wins, two draws, and only one loss, with a goal tally of 13 scored and eight conceded. Their last match, a thrilling 3-3 draw with Libya, showcased their resilience as they fought back from a 3-1 deficit.

Head-to-Head Record

Cape Verde has had the upper hand in previous encounters with Eswatini, winning three of the last five matches and drawing twice. This includes a 2-0 victory in the reverse fixture earlier in the qualifiers.

Eswatini’s Struggles

In contrast, Eswatini has faced a challenging qualification campaign. Currently, they sit at the bottom of Group D with just three points from nine matches. Their record features three draws and six losses, with a total of six goals scored and 16 conceded. Their last match ended in a 2-2 draw against Angola, where they let a 2-0 lead slip away.

Eswatini’s national team, known as Sihlangu, is currently on an 18-match winless streak across all competitions. Their last victory occurred in March 2024 against Somalia during the AFCON preliminary qualifiers. Ending this slump against a formidable Cape Verde side is a monumental challenge.

Team News and Lineups

For Cape Verde, minor changes may be made following their draw with Libya. Ryan Mendes is expected to start after replacing Heriberto Tavares early in the previous match. Sidny Lopes Cabral, who contributed a goal and an assist off the bench, may also receive a starting nod.

Eswatini coach Sifiso Ntibane may look to rotate his squad, potentially bringing Mcolisi Manana into the defense and starting Innocent Dlamini in midfield. Justice Johnpaul Figuareido, who scored twice in their last outing, will remain the focal point of their attack.

Predictions

With the advantage of home support and their aspirations for World Cup qualification, Cape Verde is favored to secure a win. Predictions indicate a solid performance from the Blue Sharks, with an expected scoreline of 3-0 against Eswatini.

Possible Starting Lineups

As Cape Verde aims to make history, Eswatini’s quest for a positive outcome adds an intriguing dynamic to this Group D finale.