DILI, 22 July 2025 (TATOLI) – Cape Verde made history on Tuesday evening at the 12th CPLP Games, claiming their first-ever victory in the competition with a 4-0 win over host nation Timor-Leste.
The match began with both sides playing proactive, attacking football. Timor-Leste made tactical adjustments to their squad following their opening loss to Portugal, while Cape Verde’s starting lineup featured key players who would go on to shape the outcome.
The result was powered by an impressive first-half performance in which Vitor Monteiro scored twice and António Pedro added a third to give them the lead.
António Pedro was the standout performer. For the opening goal, he used his physicality to dispossess a Timorese defender before setting up Vitor, who calmly beat his marker with a feint and fired the ball into the net.
Pedro doubled the lead with a brilliant solo effort, punishing a defensive lapse with a composed finish. He continued to be a key figure in the attacking buildup leading to Cape Verde’s third goal from Vitor.
Timor-Leste showed signs of a comeback, responding immediately after Cape Verde’s opener with some promising attacks. However, despite their improved passing and movement, they were unable to convert their chances.
In the second half, Cape Verde maintained their dominance in possession and extended their lead with a fourth goal from Lázaro Monteiro. Timor-Leste showed noticeable improvement and made tactical adjustments, but continued to struggle against Cape Verde’s well-structured defense.
The victory marks a significant milestone for Cape Verde, who will look to carry this momentum into their remaining matches.
TATOLI
