ATLANTA — Facing the might of Spain is a “dream come true” said Cape Verde coach Bubista as the African nation prepares for its World Cup debut on Monday.
Blessed with what Spain boss Luis de la Fuente boasted Saturday is the “best squad in the tournament” in his opinion, the European champions are among the favourites to win the competition for a second time.
By contrast, Cape Verde is on the global stage for the first time, but are determined to “not just make up the numbers” after shocking Cameroon in qualifying to earn their place in the United States.
“We’ve been discussing how much we want to enjoy the match and the World Cup,” Bubista told a press conference.
“It is an amazing opportunity to show our country to the world. We are very much happy to face Spain in the opener; this is a dream coming true.”
Cape Verde were one of 13 football federations to hit out at UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin over remarks that an expanded tournament would lead to “completely uninteresting” matches.
In remarks by Ceferin reportedly made before the tournament to Slovenian newspaper Delo, the UEFA chief said the expansion of the World Cup to 48 teams this year — up from 32 in 2022 — would dilute the quality of the competition.
“We are happy to be here, I believe it is an opportunity for teams from smaller countries to have a chance to participate and play and compete, so to us we are proud of being here,” Bubista told AFP.
“Our flag will be flying, that is the most important thing, among the best football nations in the world.
“There is no greater joy than that because we are a small country and we will do our very best so that every Cabo Verdian may feel proud of our participation.”
Spanish superstar Lamine Yamal is set to only make his World Cup debut from the bench as he is eased back into action from a hamstring injury.
The Barcelona winger lit up Euro 2024 as La Roja romped to success in Germany and is hoping to make similar impact on the World Cup at just 18 years of age.
“If it is the World Cup of Lamine I don’t know. There are many great players from many different countries,” said Cape Verde captain Ryan Mendes.
“We are up against one of the best teams in the world, we can just hope it is our day and get the best result possible.”
