Cape Verde exits World Cup after narrow extra-time loss to Argentina
The Cape Verde national team, making its World Cup debut, was eliminated in the round of 32 by defending champion Argentina, falling 3-2 after extra time.
Cape Verde's first appearance at the FIFA World Cup ended on Friday when the team lost 3-2 to Argentina in a round-of-32 match that went to extra time. The African side, known as the Blue Sharks, had reached the knockout stage after drawing all three of their group-stage games, including a scoreless match against Spain. Goalkeeper Fernando "Vozinha" Ribeiro, 40, made several high-profile saves against Lionel Messi during the contest, but Argentina secured the win with a late corner-kick goal in extra time.
"We have dignified Cape Verde as a national team in most parts of the world," Vozinha said in Portuguese after the match.
Defender Pico Lopes praised the goalkeeper, noting his performance against Messi, while coach Bubista highlighted the significance of the tournament for the nation, which is the smallest by land area to qualify. "Argentina is a world champion and they have one of the best players in the world, so that in itself speaks of the challenge it was for our team to overcome them," he said.
FIFA will award Cape Verde $11 million for reaching the knockout round. The team's unexpected run has raised its profile internationally, with fans worldwide now aware of the island nation’s footballing presence.
