Ghana and Cape Verde gearing up for World Cup knockout round

Ghana are preparing for a decisive Group L encounter against England after opening their campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama. 

Head coach Carlos Queiroz expressed satisfaction with the team’s progress and believes the Black Stars will continue to improve as they become more comfortable with his tactical approach. 

The Portuguese coach stressed that development is a gradual process but remains confident his side can rise to the challenge.

Queiroz also sought to inspire his players and supporters ahead of the England showdown, famously declaring that while England have “three lions” on their shirt, Ghana have “33 million lions” behind them. 

The experienced manager believes the Black Stars possess the discipline, character, and determination needed to compete with one of the tournament favourites, knowing that a positive result could significantly boost their chances of reaching the knockout stages.

As the group stage enters its decisive phase, both African nations have emerged as compelling stories at the tournament. 

Cape Verde are chasing one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history as they target qualification in their debut appearance, while Ghana are looking to build momentum under Queiroz and prove they can challenge football’s elites.

Meanwhile, Cape Verde coach Pedro “Bubista” Brito praised his players’ fighting spirit after they twice came from difficult situations to claim a valuable point against Uruguay. 

The tournament debutants have now held both Spain and Uruguay in Group H, leaving them on the brink of a historic qualification for the knockout rounds.

Bubista said his team has shown that determination, organization, and belief can help smaller nations compete with football’s traditional powers.

The Blue Sharks produced another memorable display as Kevin Pina scored Cape Verde’s first-ever World Cup goal with a stunning free-kick before Helio Varela netted the equaliser in the second half. 

The result kept Cape Verde unbeaten in the tournament and firmly in contention to reach the Round of 32. 

Bubista emphasized that his players continue to dream big despite the nation’s limited resources, insisting that passion and commitment can overcome financial and structural disadvantages.

Cape Verde will face Saudi Arabia next and a win against the Asians will secure a round of 32 spot for them.