Cape Verde will make its FIFA World Cup debut against European champions Spain in Atlanta on Monday, and coach Bubista said his side will approach the match without fear. Spain arrive as one of the tournament favourites, while Bubista described the fixture as an “amazing opportunity.”
Speaking at a pre-match news conference at Atlanta Stadium, Bubista said the players intend to enjoy the experience and stressed that qualification represented more than sporting success. He called it a cultural achievement and said the team wants to use the tournament to show the nation to the world.
Bubista outlined the national side’s identity as one that embraces challenges and seeks to overcome difficulties, adding that Cape Verde will play bravely when in possession. He acknowledged that nerves could be “a danger,” but insisted the squad, which qualified ahead of Cameroon, had not come to the United States merely to take part.
The coach conceded the quality of Spain, noting the country has some of the best players in the world, but added that Cape Verde will look to create problems for their opponents. The comment came a day after another World Cup debutant, Curacao, were beaten 7-1 by Germany on Sunday.
Separately, football associations from 13 nations, including Cape Verde, issued a statement criticizing reported remarks by UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin that some matches at the expanded World Cup were “completely uninteresting.” Bubista said he had not read that statement and reiterated his view that the tournament provides an opportunity for smaller countries to participate and compete, and that Cape Verde were present on merit.
