Cabo Verde, known internationally as Cape Verde, has made history by earning its first berth in the FIFA World Cup. The island nation secured one of the 48 slots for the 2026 tournament by topping Group D in CAF World Cup Qualifying, a feat achieved after winning all five of its matches, including a decisive victory over Cameroon.
The Blue Sharks will relocate their entire preparation to Tampa, Florida, where they have established their headquarters at the Tampa Bay Rowdies' Waters Sportsplex. The facility will host all practice sessions, player workouts, team meetings and staff operations, while remaining closed to the public.
A Local Connection Fuels the Preparation
Adding a personal touch to the arrangement, Steevan Dos Santos, a top striker for the Rowdies, was born in Cabo Verde. His presence bridges the two teams and underscores the shared heritage that motivated the island nation's choice of Tampa as a base.
Ryan Helfrick, President of the Tampa Bay Rowdies, expressed pride in hosting the historic squad, noting that the partnership highlights the growing soccer footprint in the region and offers a unique opportunity to showcase Tampa's sports infrastructure on a global stage.
During the Group Stage, Cabo Verde will play its matches in three U.S. cities: Atlanta, Miami and Houston. The team's arrival has already sparked local excitement, with Tampa Bay's biggest Team USA Watch Parties scheduled to begin this weekend at Al Lang Stadium, further cementing the city's role as a soccer hub.