Cape Verdes players and staff were given a heroes welcome as tens of thousands of jubilant fans turned out to see the team return from their historic run at this summers World Cup. The Blue Sharks flew into the countrys capital city, Praia, on Sunday, following their narrow exit at the hands of holders Argentina in the round of 32. The archipelago, the third smallest nation ever to reach the finals of footballs showpiece event, gave Lionel Messi and co. an almighty scare in Miami, twice coming from behind to draw level but ultimately falling to a 3-2 defeat as the game went the full 120 minutes. Even before kick-off, Cape Verde were already the fairytale story of this summer, having held European champions Spain to a goalless draw in their opening match before going undefeated in the group stage to reach the knockout phase. We made history for our countryForty-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha, who picked up the player of the match award against Spain following a string of top-class saves, gained several million new social media followers, while the team captured the hearts of many football fans across north America. Speaking to the BBC upon the teams return, Vozinha said: It is a very great moment for us to be here with our people.We wanted something bigger but we didnt go to the next stage. Now we just enjoy the moment and celebrate with our people. The teams homecoming coincides with Cape Verdes independence day, with the island celebrating 51 years since the end of Portuguese colonial rule.After the Argentina defeat, manager Bubista hailed his players, saying: We showed that we may be a small country but we can play against the best teams in the world. Thats a reason for pride.We made history for our country. They can be proud for representing our country. Topics Argentina National Football Team Cape Verde national football team World Cup 2026 Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Mexico v England: Jordan Henderson makes light of Three Lions Viagra rumour and insists players are ready to go 101 GreatGoals 5th July, 2026 Thomas Tuchel admits feeling the impact of Mexico City altitude ahead of World Cup clash 101 GreatGoals 5th July, 2026 Kylian Mbappe: World Cup 2026 playing schedule, fixtures, kick off times, where to watch, confirmed news updates and full France squad Ben Miller 5th July, 2026 World Cup 2026: Full fixtures, dates, games, schedule and results from FIFA football finals Ben Miller 5th July, 2026 FIFA World Cup 2026: Full France fixtures, results, schedule, confirmed squad, next match, kick off times Ben Miller 5th July, 2026 World Cup 2026: France 1-0 Paraguay Report, result, goals as Kylian Mbappe moves above Lionel Messi among top scorers with penalty to set up Morocco tie and Albirroja are branded disgrace Ben Miller 5th July, 2026
