Tens of thousands of fans greeted the Cape Verde national team upon its return to Praia on Sunday following a historic run at the World Cup.
The Blue Sharks flew into the capital after their round of 32 exit to defending champions Argentina. The team lost 3-2 in Miami after extra time, having twice equalized in a match that went to 120 minutes.
Cape Verde reached the knockout stage undefeated in its group, including a goalless draw against European champions Spain. The archipelago is the third smallest nation to qualify for the finals.
Goalkeeper Vozinha, aged 40, received the player of the match award against Spain and gained millions of new social media followers. Manager Bubista praised the squad, stating they showed a small country can compete with the best.
The homecoming coincided with Cape Verde’s Independence Day celebrations marking 51 years since the end of Portuguese rule.
