Stopira retires from Cape Verde national football team

Stopira, the 38-year-old defender for Torreense, has announced his definitive retirement from the Cape Verde national football team. This marks his second departure from the squad after an 18-year career representing the ‘Tubarões Azuis’.

In a social media announcement, Stopira reflected on his long tenure, noting that his decision comes exactly one year after Cape Verde achieved the historic milestone of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. He expressed deep gratitude to his teammates, technical staff, and the people of Cape Verde, stating that his time with the national team was defined by “dreams, sacrifices, joys, tears, victories, and defeats.”

During his international career, Stopira earned 63 caps and scored four goals. He was a participant in the 2015, 2021, and 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) editions. He indicated that he is stepping away to allow space for the next generation of players.