India likely to host Cape Verde around Brazil friendly in October
Indian football fans could be in for another treat this autumn, with the Blue Tigers likely to host World Cup breakout side Cape Verde between 30 September and 6 October, according to sources close to the discussions.
The All India Football Federation has reportedly written formally to the Cape Verde Football Federation, seeking confirmation of a friendly against India's men's national team during the upcoming FIFA international window later this year.
The proposed fixture could be scheduled either just before or after India's much-anticipated friendly against Brazil in Kolkata on 3 October, with talks over the Cape Verde match still ongoing regarding venue and exact date.
"The talks are on but it is yet to be finalised. But there is high probability that India will host Cape Verde between September 30 and October 6," a source told PTI, one of the news agencies tracking developments around the fixture.
"The venue and date will be decided after it's officially finalised. The modalities and deliberations are on. Hopefully, it will be finalised shortly," the source added, indicating an announcement could come in the near future.
Cape Verde, currently ranked 64th in the world, became one of the standout stories of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, reaching the last 32 on their tournament debut while completing an unbeaten run through the group stage.
The tiny African nation held eventual champions Spain to a goalless draw, played out an entertaining 2-2 draw against Uruguay, and secured another 0-0 result against Saudi Arabia to book their place in the knockouts.
Goalkeeper Vozinha emerged as a particular fan favourite during the tournament, with his performances between the posts earning widespread praise and helping turn Cape Verde into one of the World Cup's most popular underdog stories.
Their fairytale run eventually ended against defending champions Argentina, though not before Cape Verde pushed the South Americans to the brink, twice fighting back from behind before losing 3-2 after extra time in the round of 32.
The campaign marked a historic first World Cup appearance for Cape Verde, who became the smallest nation by size and the second least populous country after Iceland ever to qualify for football's biggest stage.