Cape Verde secured a historic berth in the 2026 FIFA World Cup by winning their qualifying group within the Confederation of African Football. Head coach Bubista announced the final roster on May 13, 2026, highlighting goalkeeper Carlos Joaquim Antunes dos Santos, known as CJ Dos Santos, as a key selection.
CJ Dos Santos’ Path to the World Cup
CJ Dos Santos, currently the goalkeeper for San Diego FC in Major League Soccer, emerged as a standout player during the 2025 season. He recorded 10 clean sheets and helped San Diego FC set expansion season records with 63 points and 19 wins. Prior to his MLS success, Dos Santos played for Inter Miami CF II and represented the United States at youth international levels including the U-17 World Cup in 2017 and the U-20 World Cup in 2019.
Earlier in 2026, Dos Santos completed a one-time nationality switch to represent Cape Verde at the senior international level, with official approval on May 13. This move aligns him with the Blue Sharks’ World Cup campaign in Group H.
2026 World Cup Group and Schedule
Cape Verde will compete in Group H alongside Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia. The team will open its tournament on June 15, 2026, facing Spain in Atlanta, Georgia. The selection of CJ Dos Santos to the squad underscores Cape Verde’s growing competitiveness on the world stage as they prepare for this high-profile international tournament.
Source: Original report