Stoichkov, who noted that “they’re disciplined, strong”, also described Cape Verde’s journey at the World Cup so far as “phenomenal” and “a fairy tale”.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Former Bulgaria captain Hristo Stoichkov and former Uruguay international Diego Forlán have named Cape Verde as the African team that has impressed them the most at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup.
They made this known recently while speaking to the FIFA Podcast following the conclusion of the tournament’s group stage fixtures.
Cape Verde, after finishing in second place behind Spain in their group, will face reigning World Cup champions Argentina in the Round of 32 on Friday.
Speaking ahead of the eagerly anticipated clash, Stoichkov and Forlán described the tiny West African island nation as a disciplined and physically strong team.
The Bulgarian legend went on to describe their journey so far in the tournament as “phenomenal” and “a fairy tale”.
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He said: “What they have done is phenomenal. They are going to be facing Argentina [next], but so far, it’s amazing, a fairy tale.”
Stoichkov added: “Cabo Verde are an organised, disciplined team. I watch their faces: they’re very happy – the players, and the coach. This is very important.”
Similarly, Forlán argued that they have experienced players and have got nothing to lose when they face Argentina.
He said: “They’re enjoying it [World Cup games]. This is their first time, the first time they have qualified, as well, to the next phase.
”They are playing Argentina. They don’t have anything to lose. They are very experienced players, physically strong.
”The keeper [Vozinha] is doing really well. They are like the underdogs, which you get at every World Cup.”
