The sight of Cape Verde’s players huddled around a single mobile phone as they watched the final seconds of Spain’s win over Uruguay before bursting into celebration was the kind of moment Fifa had hoped for in their push for an expanded World Cup.
As was the joy in the stands in Houston on Friday as Cape Verde fans cheered, danced and shed tears when the tiny island nation of some 500,000 inhabitants set up a round of 32 meeting with world champions Argentina in Miami on July 3.
Cape Verde became the first World Cup debutant to reach the knockout phase in 20 years with their 0-0 draw against Saudi Arabia to close out Group H Friday night in Houston.
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The nation of islands off Africa’s Atlantic Coast was the third-smallest qualifier in tournament history when it topped a qualifying group that included traditional African power Cameroon last October.
Saudi Arabia failed to advance for a sixth consecutive World Cup appearance after reaching the last 16 in their maiden tournament in 1994. Before Friday, Ghana and Ukraine were the last tournament debutants to progress from their group in 2006.
Coach Bubista had said in his pre-match press conference that the World Cup is for all nations, not just the elite of the game.
As thrilling as the stories of the winners lifting the trophy may be, so too are those of teams who punch above their weight, overcome hardships just to compete, and who showcase the fighting spirit and skill that make sport so captivating.
“Honestly, it’s mad. I feel like I’m in a dream,” Cape Verde midfielder Deroy Duarte 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 are unlikely to advance beyond the next stage against Lionel Messi and company, but they have already written a story that will be long remembered.
“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,” said Duarte.
“It’s against Argentina, isn’t it? A tough match, but let’s believe. Anything is possible.”
Cape Verde qualified for the round of 32 with three draws, with their gritty, defensive display against Spain in their opener the most impressive.
That won them new fans around the world, with Houston Stadium awash with Cape Verde t-shirts on Friday.
Source: Khaleej Times