HOUSTON : Cape Verde’s players huddled around a mobile phone to watch the closing moments of Spain’s 1-0 victory over Uruguay before erupting in celebration, a scene that perfectly captured the romance FIFA envisioned with its expanded 48-team World Cup.
The tiny island nation of about 500,000 people secured a place in the Round of 32 after a goalless draw with Saudi Arabia on Friday, sparking jubilant scenes among their supporters at Houston Stadium, where fans danced, sang and wiped away tears as Cape Verde set up a meeting with defending champions Argentina in Miami on July 3.
Coach Bubista had said before the match that the World Cup should belong to every nation, not just football’s traditional powers.
While the tournament will ultimately crown one champion, Cape Verde’s remarkable journey has become one of its defining stories, highlighting the appeal of underdogs who defy expectations through resilience, discipline and belief.
“Honestly, it’s mad. I feel like I’m in a dream,” midfielder Deroy Duarte, who was named player of the match, said.
“Ever since I was a kid, I’ve always dreamed of playing in a World Cup. To be man of the match and make history is something I could never have imagined.”
Cape Verde advanced to the knockout stage with three draws, earning widespread admiration for their disciplined defensive performances, particularly in their opening match against Spain.
Their reward is a daunting clash with Lionel Messi’s Argentina, but Duarte insisted his side would embrace the challenge.
“First, let’s celebrate. We’re so happy. Let’s hope all Cape Verdeans are happy too. From tomorrow, we’ll focus on the next match,” he said.
“It’s against Argentina, isn’t it? A tough match, but let’s believe. Anything is possible.”
