Cape Verde’s hopes of qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations came to an end following a 1-1 draw at home against Egypt, who had already secured their spot in the tournament. The match, held in front of Cape Verde’s passionate home crowd, saw the hosts put up a spirited fight, but they were unable to claim the win they desperately needed to keep their qualification chances alive.
Egypt, fielding a mix of regulars and squad players, played with composure, having already booked their ticket to the finals. Despite Cape Verde managing to secure a goal and equalize, the stalemate was not enough to alter their fate in Group A. The draw marks a disappointing conclusion to Cape Verde’s campaign, as their elimination dashes hopes of joining the continent’s elite in Morocco next year.