Jovane Cabral Play today? Spain vs Cape Verde at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Jovane Cabral, the 28-year-old striker who plays as a winger for Estrela da Amadora, from Portugal, will be one of Cape Verde’s main offensive weapons this Monday, at 1 pm (Brasília time), against Spain, in Atlanta. The match opens the first round of Group H of the 2026 World Cup and marks the Blue Sharks’ historic debut in the tournament.
Jovane Eduardo Borges Cabral was born on June 14, 1998, in Assomada, on the island of Santiago, Cape Verde. At 1.74m tall and left-footed, he stands out for his speed, dribbling and finishing ability, attributes that have made him a reference in the national team’s attack.
Formed at Sporting CP, where he arrived as a teenager from Cape Verde, Jovane went through loans and established himself in Portuguese football. Currently at Estrela da Amadora, he is going through a good phase in the 2025/2026 season, with seven goals and one assist in the Primeira Liga.
Jovane Cabral’s career
Since making his debut for the senior team in 2017, Jovane has accumulated more than 25 caps and a few goals for Cape Verde. He was an important player in the African Qualifiers, helping the team eliminate Cameroon and secure a direct place in the first World Cup in the country’s history.
At 28 years old, the striker arrives at the World Cup motivated and in a competitive rhythm. His experience in Portugal and ability to decide games will be key against the strong Spanish defense in Bubista’s team.
Spain arrives undefeated and as favorites
The Spanish team, led by Luis de la Fuente, is one of the great candidates for the title. Undefeated for 30 games, winner of the European Championship and the Nations League, they are looking to improve their performance in World Cups since 2010.
Probable lineup for Spain: Unai Simón; Llorente, Laporte, Eric García and Cucurella; Rodri, Pedri and Fabián Ruiz; Dani Olmo (or Baena), Ferrán Torres and Oyarzabal.
Cape Verde bets on offensive talent
Bubista should choose a team with quick transitions, using Jovane Cabral as the main option on the wing.
Probable lineup for Cape Verde: Vozinha; Wagner Pina (or Steven Moreira), Diney Borges, Pico Lopes and Sidny Cabral; Kevin Lenini, Deroy Duarte, Telmo Arcanjo, Jamiro Monteiro and Jovane Cabral; Nuno da Costa (or Livramento).
Arbitration and where to watch
Referee: Adham Makhadmeh (JOR) Assistants: Mohammad Al-Kalaf (JOR) and Ahmad Al-Roalle (JOR) Fourth referee: Andres Rojas (COL) VAR: Joe Dickerson (USA)
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