Cabo Verde's World Cup run inspires Brazil 2027 dream

Cabo Verde's remarkable FIFA World Cup campaign has left a lasting legacy, inspiring the nation's women's team as they prepare for their debut at the CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations. The second-smallest nation ever to compete at a World Cup, Cabo Verde's men's team impressed in North America, remaining unbeaten over 90 minutes against both finalists, Spain and Argentina, while Sidny Lopes Cabral won the Hyundai Goal of the Tournament.

Less than two weeks after the men's tournament concluded, Cabo Verdean football is set for another historic milestone: the women's national team will make their first-ever appearance at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Ahead of the tournament, attacking midfielder Ivania Moreira spoke to FIFA about how the men's exploits have inspired the team as they bid to secure a place at the FIFA Women's World Cup Brazil 2027.

Dreams Becoming Reality

Moreira expressed her excitement ahead of the tournament. "Personally, I'm really excited and can't wait to get on the pitch. It's something we've always dreamed about, although for a long time it felt a little out of reach. Now it's become reality, and it's very… It's hard to put into words. I'm so happy," she said.

The midfielder emphasized the team's unity and belief. "As a team, we're very united and very strong. I believe we're going to have a good tournament, I believe in this group and I believe we can get out of the group."

For Moreira, the tournament itself feels like a World Cup given the team's rapid progress. "For us, it's almost like we're already at a World Cup. This is our first appearance. We're a very small country and our women's national team has only been around for a few years. We only started trying to qualify for the Women's Africa Cup of Nations two years ago. We made it at our second attempt, and that's already incredibly rewarding, so I'm very happy," she added.

Inspired by the Men's Team

The men's World Cup run has provided a powerful example for the women's team. "It's inspiring. They went there for the first time as a small country. It's exactly the same for us at our first Women's Africa Cup of Nations. What they achieved gives us even more confidence, determination and desire to follow in their footsteps," Moreira said.

She singled out winger Willy Semedo as a player she identifies with. "I really like Willy Semedo. We play in almost the same position, and he's quick like I am, so that makes me identify with him even more. But I like all of them. It's a hugely positive example, both individually and collectively. As a national team, it showed that the name of Cabo Verde can reach even greater heights. That makes me very happy."

Dreaming of Brazil 2027

Looking ahead, Moreira hopes to qualify for the Women's World Cup in Brazil, a country with deep cultural ties to Cabo Verde. "We're so grateful for all the support from the Brazilian fans. We support them too. Cabo Verde and Brazil share so much culturally, like the way we love to dance. It would be a dream to play in Brazil. God willing, we'll do everything we can to win," she said.

Moreira also expressed admiration for Brazilian legend Marta. "I'm a huge fan of Marta. She's the greatest. Every player should look up to her."

As the team prepares for their opening match, Moreira is focused on the task at hand. "Once the match starts, it's 11 against 11. We'll play with determination, desire and motivation. We have a bigger goal we're chasing, and we'll give everything we have in every match to get there."