By Noe Richepin
Guest Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon
This Wednesday the Tripoli International Stadium is the stage for a decisive match in Group D of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The encounter between the Knights of the Mediterranean and Cape Verde transcends the sporting stakes, crystallizing an unprecedented level of involvement from the highest echelons of the Libyan government.
A Major Turning Point for Group D
Under the leadership of Head Coach Aliou Cissé, the Libyan national team faces an imperative to win. Currently 3rd in Group D with 14 points, Libya must defeat the group leader, Cape Verde (19 points), at home to close the gap and maintain their qualification hopes for the World Cup. A victory today would be seen as a masterful result capable of reshuffling the cards at the top of the table.
The Minister of Sports, Abdel Shafi’i Al-Juwaifi, underlined these high stakes by visiting the team’s camp
The Minister of Sports, Abdel Shafi’i Al-Juwaifi, underlined these high stakes by visiting the team’s camp, accompanied by the President of the Federation, Abdel-Mawla Al-Maghribi. Mr. Al-Juwaifi expressed his “confidence” and urged the players to demonstrate “determination and perseverance” to honor the “ambitions” of the Libyan people.
The Government, Guaranteeing the Event’s Success
The organization of the match has been elevated to a national priority, involving several ministries. The diplomatic climax was reached yesterday when Prime Minister, Abdul Hamid Dabaiba, personally hosted the entire Cape Verdean delegation.
Surrounded by his key ministers—including the Minister of Youth, Fathallah Al-Zani, the Acting Minister of Interior, General **Imad Trabelsi, and the Minister of Sports himself—Mr. Dabaiba turned the meeting into a symbol of cooperation and security. Discussions focused on strengthening African ties in the security and sports sectors, confirming the event’s role as a platform for political exchange.
The official welcome of the Cape Verdean officials—including Minister of Interior Paulo Augusto Costa Rocha and Minister of Sports Carlos do Canto Monteiro—by Libyan officials, notably Minister Al-Juwaifi and Major General Abdel Baset Al-Tabbal, highlighted Libya’s determination to ensure a flawless reception and project an image of stability.
All attention is now focused on the 1 PM GMT kick-off.
Copyright©2025 kick442.com-Cameroon
All rights reserved. This material and any other digital content on this platform may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, written, or distributed in full or in part, without written permission from our management.
This site is not responsible for the content displayed by external sites
English 
French