Cape Verde vs Mauritania Prediction: The Blue Sharks won’t hold back at halftime

Cape Verde, who have impressed their supporters in this tournament, will face off against Mauritania at the Stade Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium on Monday. The Blue Sharks pulled off a surprise stunt in this tournament as they beat Ghana, Egypt, and Mozambique to the top of the summit. At the same time, Mauritania stunned Algeria in their final group game to qualify as the best loser in Group D. 

FIFA Ranking: 73th

The Blue Sharks once again showed what they are made of as they almost eliminated the most successful team in the history of the competition after their (2-2) draw in their final game. Cape Verde began their journey with a late (1-2) victory over an uninspiring Ghana side and followed it up with a total superiority against Mozambique. Their final group game proved that Cape Verde might be on their way to the final this season as they shared the spoils against Egypt.

Cape Verde were one of the deadliest sides in the qualifying round, and they can hurt any side in this competition. Although they have only played in two seasons in this tournament, Cape Verde have proven to be a formidable force to be reckoned with. Cape Verde has also secured their place in the knockout phase for the second year running, wrapping up the group at the top of the log. 

Cape Verde's possible starting lineup: Vozinha; Fernandes, Costa, Pico, Moreira; Pina, Duarte, Monteiro; Mendes, Cabral, Bebé

Key Player: Ryan Mendes

FIFA Ranking: 105th

The Lions of Chinguetti registered their best outing in the history of this tournament, qualifying as one of the best losers in the group stage. Mauritania, who lost their first two games, enhanced their gameplay as they stunned Algeria in their final group game. Mohammed Dellahi Yali scored the only goal that fired his side to their first-ever knockout game.

Mauritania finished third in Group D, picking up three points from a combined nine, scoring three and conceding four. 

Mauritania squad are 80% home-based but have been playing as a team under their French coach, Amir Abdou.

Mauritania's Possible Starting Lineup: Niasse; Keita, El Abd, Ba, Abeid; Gassama, Fofana, Mouhsine; Kamara, Bouna, Koita

Key Player: Kamara

Cape Verde were one of the few jaw-droppers in the group phase, dethroning Ghana and Egypt to assume the top spot. Coach Bubista and his men have been nothing short of a joy to watch in this tournament. Their transition from defensive to attack has been second to none. Monteiro, Bebe, and Ryan Mendes have been the standout performers since the tournament began. On the opposing end, Mauritania were lucky to have made it this far after their disastrous display in their first two games. Even though they managed just a win throughout their group games, they never stopped fighting and were finally rewarded when they stunned Algeria to advance to this stage. 

It won’t be a walkover for the Blue Sharks, who have done everything right until now. We expect an open encounter with goals at both ends, however, Cape Verde are expected to advance to the next round. 

Cape Verde are expected to get a halftime victory for 2.61.

We anticipate over 2.5 goals here for 2.70.

Good luck!