Introduction
It is virtually impossible to write of Cape Verde’s qualification without mentioning their incredible rise to prominence. A decade ago, the Blue Sharks were veritable footballing minnows, having never qualified to a major tournament. The emergence of a golden generation signalled a change of fortunes. Precocious talents emigrated at a young age, benefitting from sophisticated Portuguese footballing infrastructure to improve at an accelerated pace.
The African archipelago did a good job of encouraging exported progress by building two stadia, and adding an element of professionalism. In the past, players often stayed at rundown hotels and the national government could not afford to subsidize a football federation who continued to turn in disappointing performances.
In 2013, Cape Verde qualified for their first ever Africa Cup of Nations and shocked the continent by qualifying to the quarter-finals. The Blue Sharks only lost to Ghana by way of a controversial Mubarak Wakaso penalty kick.
Benefitting from a relatively easy group in qualifying, Cape Verde became the first nation to qualify for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations. However, the group they have been drawn into breeds an air of familiarity. Zambia were Group F opponents, who Cape Verde have already played twice in the last six months. DR Congo and Tunisia are also well-known foes having drawn them during 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification.
None of these teams will, therefore, be able to spring a surprise on their opponents. Rather, coach Rui Aguas will need to put his man management acumen to effect, devising specific gameplans for each opponent. Expect Group B to be a tightly contested tactical affair.
have been drawn into breeds an air of familiarity. Zambia were Group F opponents, who Cape Verde have already played twice in the last six months. DR Congo and Tunisia are also well-known foes having drawn them during 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification.
None of these teams will, therefore, be able to spring a surprise on their opponents. Rather, coach Rui Aguas will need to put his well-documented acumen to effect, devising specific gameplans for each opponent. Expect Group B to be a tightly contested tactical affair.
The Framework
Rui Aguas must be commended for effecting a continuation in personnel. Most Cape Verde players disputing the 2015 Afcon played the 2013 tournament in South Africa. Vozinha is expected to guard the net, and the only defender won’t return to play in his second consecutive Cup of Nations is former skipper Nando Neves. “The Wolverine’s” departure has opened a space for Stopira to establish himself as Fernando Varela’s partner.
In attack Aguas has a large selection
Cape Verde