Pedro Leitão Brito, the Cape Verde head coach better known as Bubista, has vowed his team will play their natural game when they line up against Spain in their first-ever FIFA World Cup 2026 fixture on Monday in Atlanta.

The Blue Sharks are set to make their historic debut on football's grandest stage, arriving as one of 10 African nations competing in the expanded tournament after a standout qualification campaign.

Bubista's confidence ahead of the Spain showdown

Despite drawing one of the tournament's strongest sides for their opening match, Bubista insists his squad are ready to perform with the spirit and character that define them.

"We want to show everything we have prepared for. We want to compete and bring our identity," Bubista told CAFonline.

"Being able to play these three matches with courage and determination is important for us, showing the world who we are as a team, but more importantly as a country."

A remarkable rise for African football's quiet achievers

Cape Verde's journey to this moment stands as one of African football's most inspiring stories. The island nation has climbed steadily to earn their place among the world's elite, and Bubista is under no illusion about the scale of the task ahead — but he refuses to be overawed.

"We are aware of the difficulties, and we know how strong our opponents are. However, I believe the match will be competitive on the pitch," the coach added.

Cape Verde will also face Saudi Arabia and Uruguay in their remaining Group H fixtures, with the Blue Sharks aiming to reach the knockout rounds of the competition for the first time in their history.