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Cape Verde Begins AFCON 2027 Qualifying Against Mali
After making World Cup history, the Blue Sharks enter a new era with an immediate test against one of their biggest Group K rivals.
Cape Verde Begins a New Era on the Road to AFCON 2027
After making history at the 2026 World Cup, Cape Verde now turns its attention to another major objective. The Blue Sharks open their AFCON 2027 Qualifying campaign against Mali on September 25 in one of the standout fixtures of the opening matchday.
Cape Verde enters the campaign under new head coach Humberto Bettencourt, who was promoted following Bubista's departure to take charge of Moroccan club RS Berkane.
Bettencourt, however, is already deeply familiar with the project. He spent six years working alongside Bubista and was part of the coaching staff that guided the Blue Sharks to their historic first World Cup appearance.
Mali Provides an Immediate Test for Cape Verde
The new era could hardly begin with a tougher assignment. Mali boasts an experienced and deep squad and enters the campaign with ambitions of its own in Group K.
That makes the opening encounter particularly significant. With only six matches to secure qualification, picking up points against a direct rival could prove crucial once the final standings take shape.
Rwanda and Liberia meet in the group's other opening fixture as all four nations begin their race for a place at AFCON 2027.
Two AFCON 2027 Spots Are Up for Grabs
Unlike groups containing one of the automatically qualified host nations, Group K offers two direct qualification places.
The teams finishing first and second will both secure their tickets to AFCON 2027, making every point valuable from the very first matchday.
After facing Mali, Cape Verde will host Rwanda on September 29, while Mali travels to face Liberia. For the Blue Sharks, another challenge begins after one of the most significant chapters in the country's soccer history.
Key Takeaways
- Cape Verde opens its AFCON 2027 Qualifying campaign against Mali on September 25.
- Humberto Bettencourt takes charge after spending six years as Bubista's assistant.
- The top two teams in Group K will qualify for AFCON 2027.
