During a visit to New Bedford, Massachusetts, American actor Bill Murray said that Cape Verde was the second-best team in the World Cup
During a surprise appearance in New Bedford, actor Bill Murray expressed his support for Cape Verde in the 2026 World Cup, stating that, in his opinion, the Cape Verdean national team was the “second-best team” in the competition. The comment moved the Cape Verdean community in attendance at the event and underscored the international impact of the Blue Sharks’ historic participation.
New Bedford, Massachusetts - Well-known American actor Bill Murray surprised the audience in New Bedford during the “Bill Murray Movie Marathon,” an event dedicated to his film career, but it was a statement about Cape Verde that ended up making the night memorable.
During a Q&A session following the screening of the film What About Bob?, Murray was asked about his support for the Cape Verdean national team during the 2026 World Cup—a topic of particular significance in a city home to one of the largest Cape Verdean communities in the United States.
“I was absolutely rooting for Cape Verde in the World Cup,” the actor said. “I think they were the second-best team, at least in my opinion.”
The statement drew applause from the audience, especially from members of the Cape Verdean community in attendance, who saw Murray’s comment as recognition of the national team’s performance and historical significance.
Bill Murray’s visit to New Bedford held special significance due to the city’s strong ties to Cape Verde. The region has a long history of Cape Verdean immigration and remains one of the main centers of the Cape Verdean diaspora in the United States.
Cape Verde’s participation in the 2026 World Cup drew international attention and introduced the country’s name to new audiences. For many Cape Verdeans both on and off the islands, the Blue Sharks’ journey represents not only a sporting achievement but also a moment of national pride.
With his statement, Bill Murray joined the ranks of international figures who have recognized the impact of the Cape Verdean national team on world soccer, bringing a message of Cape Verdean pride to one of the cities most closely tied to the history of Cape Verdean emigration.
