2026 WCQ: Livramento double lifts Cape Verde over Lusophone rivals Angola

Cape Verde concluded March on a high note in 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying after a surprising 2-1 Group D win over Angola in Luanda. First half substitute Dailon Livramento scored his first international goals, tallying a double as the Blue Sharks maintained their status as Group D leaders.

Angola dominated the early proceedings with a high percentage of possession in the first half. The visitors opted for a calculated and counter attacking approach. Alessio Da Cruz forced a save from Angola goalkeeper Neblu.

The home side could have gone 1-0 up when Fredy had an opportunity but shot over the bar. Italian based forward Livramento gave the away side the lead on the brink of halftime following a fast break.

The Palancas Negras equalized after the resumption with Gelson Dala striking from close range. Nonetheless, Cape Verde yet again retook the lead through Livramento after good work by left back Wagner Pina to set him up for the second goal.

Angola’s efforts to level matters were futile as Cape Verde hold on to their slender lead to take home three precious points. Cape Verde cement their lead at the top of Group D with 13 points. They end the March qualifiers by becoming the new leaders of the group. Angola are fourth with seven points.

Group D Table

• The group winners qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

• Four of the nine group runners-up qualify for a playoff to determine Africa's representative at the intercontinental qualifying playoff.