Columbus Crew defender Steven Moreira joins Cape Verde for their historic debut appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Moreira is one of two MLS players on Cape Verde's World Cup roster, playing alongside San Diego FC goalkeeper CJ Dos Santos. The 31-year-old French-born defender has been a key piece of the Crew's success since joining the club in August 2021, helping the team win the 2023 MLS Cup and Leagues Cup 2024. Moreira also earned MLS Defender of the Year honors in 2024, making the MLS Best XI and participating in that year's All-Star Game. He has made 144 MLS appearances, scoring 4 goals and providing 26 assists. Moreira earned his first call-up to the Cape Verde national team in October 2023, shortly before helping the Blue Sharks reach the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinals. The Blue Sharks are in Group H alongside Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia, with their first match against Spain on June 15 in Atlanta, Georgia.