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WILL LIBERATO CACACE PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?
Liberato Cacace has become one of Oceania's most promising footballers. With his energy, technique, and European mentality, he represents a new generation of Kiwi players looking to return New Zealand to the World Cup stage. But the question on everyone's mind is clear: will we see Cacace at the 2026 World Cup? In this article, we explore his career, his current situation in Europe, the state of the New Zealand national team, and the data that could confirm his participation in the next World Cup.
From Wellington to European Football
Liberato Gianpaolo Cacace was born in Wellington, New Zealand, in 2000. With an Italian father and a New Zealand mother, his cultural mix shaped him from a young age. He began his career at Wellington Phoenix, where he made his professional debut in 2018 at the age of 17. His speed, tactical intelligence, and ability to join the attack quickly made him a promising talent.
During his first seasons in the A-League, Cacace was named "Young Player of the Year" and "Best Under-20 Defender," accolades that put him on the European radar. In 2020, he made the big leap to Sint-Truiden in Belgium, the same club where other Oceanic talents had tried to establish themselves. It didn't take him long to adapt: his aggressive yet disciplined style caught the eye of Italy's Serie A. In 2022, Cacace signed with Empoli in Italy. There he has established himself as the starting left-back, standing out for his stamina and his contribution on both sides of the pitch. In the 2023-2024 season, he played over 30 matches, averaging 1.8 interceptions and 2.3 clearances per game, in addition to providing two key assists in the fight to avoid relegation. Over 100 official matches in Europe before the age of 25. 85% average short pass completion rate. Over 25 caps for the New Zealand national team. Known for his tactical versatility: he can play as a full-back or wing-back. This progress positions him as one of the most important footballers. from the country, along with Chris Wood and Sarpreet Singh. His presence in Europe guarantees that by 2026 he will have enough experience and maturity to be a key figure.
A young team hungry for glory
The New Zealand national team, known as the "All Whites," has historically been the giant of Oceania, but has failed to return to the top competition since the 2010 World Cup. With the change in format and the expansion to 48 teams, the possibilities increase, and the generation led by Liberato Cacace wants to take advantage of it.
Coach Darren Bazeley has opted for a more modern style of play, with clean build-up play from the back and full-backs who contribute to the attack.
In that system, Cacace is essential: his physical presence and game reading allow him to be the bridge between defense and midfield.
Statistics that support his importance
In the last 10 matches for New Zealand, he averaged 3.4 clearances, 2 interceptions, and 1 assist.
He has a 79% success rate in defensive duels won.
He started in every match of the 2024 OFC qualifiers.
He participated in the 2024 OFC Nations Cup, where New Zealand finished as runners-up.
Between Italian roots and World Cup dreams
Beyond his statistics, Liberato Cacace has an interesting personal story that makes him even more beloved by the fans. His Italian surname and his ocean-going mindset create a unique combination: passion and discipline.
Fun Facts about Cacace
His father, Antonio Cacace, is a renowned Italian chef who lives in Wellington.
Liberato is a polyglot: he speaks English, Italian, and is learning Spanish.
He admires players like Paolo Maldini and Andrew Robertson, whom he constantly studies.
He is a surfing fanatic and often trains on the beaches of his hometown when he returns to New Zealand.
Off the field, Cacace is quiet and reserved. He doesn't usually give many interviews, but in the few he does, he always mentions his desire to "put New Zealand on the world football map." That commitment to his country is what most inspires the new generation of Kiwi footballers. What is expected of him heading into the World Cup? Empoli has been a big step, but everything points to Cacace potentially taking another leap before 2026. Several Italian media outlets have reported interest from clubs like Fiorentina, Torino, and Feyenoord, who are looking for young and disciplined full-backs. If that move goes through, he would arrive at the World Cup with more experience in European competitions. He has a contract with Empoli until 2026, but could leave earlier if he receives a significant offer. His current market value is around 3 million euros. At 26, he would reach the ideal footballing maturity to shine at a World Cup. As for his role in the national team, everything indicates that he will be an undisputed starter. His contribution is not only measured in defense, but also in the quiet leadership he exerts on the younger players. He's one of those players who inspires by example, without needing to say much. And if we're talking about real possibilities, the answer is yes: Liberato Cacace has everything he needs to play in the 2026 World Cup. His rising trajectory, his physical condition, his European experience, and his commitment to the New Zealand jersey make him an almost certain name on the final roster. If the All Whites qualify, Cacace will be one of the faces of the New Zealand dream in North America. In a global football landscape where stars usually come from traditional powerhouses, seeing a New Zealand player excelling in Europe is refreshing. Cacace embodies that fighting spirit, the blend of humility and ambition that defines the modern Oceanic footballer. And if fate takes him to the World Cup, it will not only be a personal reward, but a source of pride for an entire country that lives and breathes football with passion and hope.
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