2026 World Cup Qualifier: FIFA Slaps Cape Verde Huge Fine

2026 World Cup Qualifier: FIFA Slaps Cape Verde Huge Fine

Sampson Adedeji

World football governing body, FIFA, has handed Cape Verde a fine of CHF 5,000 following a pitch invasion by fans during their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Cameroon, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The incident occurred on September 9, after Cape Verde secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over the Indomitable Lions.

Ecstatic home supporters trooped onto the pitch in celebration, prompting FIFA to take disciplinary action against the Blue Sharks.

In response to the sanction, the Cape Verdean Football Federation has appealed to fans to maintain order and discipline, especially with their next qualifier against Eswatini set for October 13. 

The federation stressed the importance of avoiding further infractions that could attract heavier penalties, including potential stadium bans.

Cape Verde currently sits in a strong position in their World Cup qualifying group, and the federation is keen to ensure off-field distractions do not derail their campaign.