Cape Verde moved closer to securing their first points of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign after taking a 3-1 half-time lead over Liberia on Friday.

The Blue Sharks made a fast start in the third-round match, with Ayoni Santos opening the scoring in the fifth minute.

Liberia levelled through Franklin Daddys after 36 minutes, but their hopes of taking control of the contest lasted only two minutes. Dje Tavares restored Cape Verde’s advantage in the 38th minute.

Cape Verde then added a third goal shortly before the interval, Dailon Livramento finding the net in the 43rd minute to give the hosts a two-goal cushion.

The result leaves Cape Verde in a strong position heading into the second half, while Liberia must find a response if they are to get back into the match.