Libya’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup officially ended after a dramatic 3–3 draw against Cape Verde on Wednesday in Tripoli, during the 9th round of Group D qualifiers.
The home side took an early lead in the second minute when forward Azzou Al-Mraymi pressured defender Roberto Lopez, forcing him into a mistake that resulted in an own goal. The early strike ignited the Libyan fans, who packed the stands at the capital’s stadium.
Cape Verde responded in the 30th minute, as Arcanjo levelled the score (1–1) after a neat assist from Tavares. But Libya quickly regained control before halftime when Al-Mraymi capitalised on a rebound from the goalkeeper, finishing off a brilliant solo effort by Muad Issa to make it 2–1 in the 42nd minute.
The highlight of the night came in the 58th minute, when Mahmoud Al-Shalwi scored a sensational goal from a direct free kick, sending Libyan fans into wild celebration as the “Mediterranean Knights” extended their lead to 3–1.
However, the joy was short-lived. Libya’s defensive lapses allowed Cape Verde to stage a comeback, scoring twice in quick succession in the 76th and 83rd minutes to snatch a late draw that felt like a victory for the visitors.
With this result, Cape Verde lead Group D with 20 points, strengthening their chances of qualification, while Libya sit third with 15 points, now mathematically eliminated from contention.
Despite showing flashes of brilliance and attacking flair under coach Aliou Cissé, Libya’s inability to maintain leads and defensive organisation ultimately cost them a place in the next round.
