Former Cape Verde national team coach Rui Aguas has spoken exclusively about the Blue Sharks’ historic World Cup run, revealing the personal ties that deepen his connection to the archipelago’s success.
Cape Verde secured a 0-0 draw against Spain and a 2-2 draw with Uruguay. They face Saudi Arabia on June 27 for a spot in the knockout rounds.
Aguas, born in Portugal in 1960, played for Benfica and Porto. He managed the national team from 2014-2016 and 2018-2020. His wife was born in Cape Verde, giving him deep personal ties.
“The ultimate credit for this incredible achievement belongs to the current federative structure, the technical staff, and the players,” Aguas said.
He described the qualification as the “greatest and happiest event since independence in 1975.” He praised goalkeeper Carlos Dias (Vozinha) as “a great goalkeeper” and “a genuinely good man.”