Cape Verde are preparing for their first appearance at the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, and forward Sandra Martins says the newcomers deserve serious respect. Her message is clear: debutants do not automatically arrive just to make up the numbers.
The build-up to Cape Verde's Wafcon debut has naturally drawn comparisons with the growing profile of the country's men's national team after its World Cup breakthrough. That recent momentum has helped put Cape Verde football in a stronger spotlight, and the women's side now have a chance to make their own mark on the continental stage.
Martins' warning suggests there is confidence inside the squad despite their lack of tournament history at this level. A first Women's Africa Cup of Nations appearance brings pressure as well as excitement, but it also offers Cape Verde an opportunity to surprise more established opponents.
As the 2026 competition approaches, attention will be on whether Cape Verde can turn their debut into a genuine statement. With Sandra Martins urging rivals not to underestimate them, the island nation heads into Wafcon aiming to show that its rise in African football may not be limited to the men's game.
