Tens of thousands of supporters welcomed Cape Verde’s national football team home to Praia on Sunday, July 5 following the country’s historic debut at the FIFA World Cup.
The Blue Sharks were eliminated after a thrilling defeat to reigning champions Argentina, having impressed throughout the tournament with strong performances, including a goalless draw against Spain in the group stage. Goalkeeper Vozinha said the team was proud to celebrate the achievement with supporters despite falling short of reaching the next round.
The team’s homecoming coincided with Cape Verde’s Independence Day, marking 51 years since independence from Portuguese colonial rule.
Ranked 67th in the world before the tournament, Cape Verde earned widespread admiration after pushing Argentina to extra time before narrowly losing through a late deflected goal.
Head coach Pedro Leitão Brito (Bubista) said the team had proved that a small nation could compete with the world’s best and had made history for the country.