Logan Costa returns after 10 months and earns World Cup call | OneFootball

Logan Costa marked his first minutes of the season for Villarreal at Rayo Vallecano after 10 months out, then learned he is in Cape Verde’s final squad for the 2026 World Cup. The French-born centre-back is a Cape Verde international.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, he was named on Monday by head coach Pedro Brito, known as Bubista. At Vallecas, Costa came on in the 77th minute for Willy Kambwala, and Villarreal lost 2-0.

Costa suffered a complete anterior cruciate ligament rupture in his left knee on 19 July 2025 during a pre-season friendly against Basel in Switzerland, and underwent surgery on 21 July.

He said he was delighted to be back on the pitch and, despite the result, pleased to be with his team-mates again. He added that the season-long work to return had been difficult and that it was special to share the moment with Kambwala.

Costa noted he feels fine but needs to build rhythm, saying he knew he was ready and that the manager has now given him the opportunity. Acknowledging recent setbacks against Sevilla and Rayo, he said the team want to finish third and hopes to win their home finale. Cape Verde open against Spain on Monday 15 June in Atlanta in Group H, with kick-off at 18.00 Spanish peninsular time.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo