Boca Juniors' central defender Ayrton Costa has rejected the possibility of playing for the Cape Verde national team at the upcoming 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, stating: “I am Argentine.” Furthermore, the defender confirmed he turned down the chance because he maintains his dream of debuting for the Argentine national team. The opportunity arose a few months ago when he was approached by the Cape Verdean team, as one of his grandfathers was born in that African island nation. One of the most curious stories in recent Argentine football has come to an end, as Ayrton Costa declined to join the Cape Verde national team. “Cape Verde? No. My grandfather was from there, I am Argentine,” affirmed the defender, who is in good form for the “Xeneize.” He took the situation with humor before clarifying that he still harbors the dream of being called up to the squad managed by head coach Lionel Scaloni. Nevertheless, during a press conference held by Boca players at the club's facility in Ezeiza, Costa assured he is “focused on Boca,” with the goal of “winning things” with the “Blue and Gold” club. The team currently leads Zone A of the 2025 Torneo Clausura and has secured its spot in the next Copa Libertadores, participating in the group stage for the first time since 2023. The “Blue Sharks” team's surprising qualification came after they topped Group D in the African qualifiers for the World Cup, earning 23 points in 10 matches. However, the chance to debut for a national team and even play in a World Cup was not enough to convince the 26-year-old Costa, who has also played for Independiente and is still waiting for his chance with the albiceleste.
