Cape Verde made history on their World Cup debut. Drawing 0-0 with Saudi Arabia in Houston, they finished second in Group H and reached the round of 32. With this, they became the smallest country by population to reach a World Cup knockout stage, and the first team to reach the knockouts on debut since 2010.
Despite being in the same group as strong sides such as Spain and Uruguay, Cape Verde achieved this remarkable feat with three draws.
At a news conference, coach Bubista spoke wrapped in the national flag. On learning of the record, he said: “Us? I did not even know. So we have become an example that, with focus, determination and organisation, small countries too can set big goals. We have shown that nothing is impossible. We have represented not only our own country but Africa and the small countries of the whole world.”
He added: “I always said that, even if late, Cape Verde would one day arrive on this stage. It was hard, but we crossed one step after another. We have shown the world not to fear the difficult. Now we are in the knockouts — it is an extraordinary moment for our people, for everyone connected with our team, and especially for the players.”
Cape Verde face Argentina in Miami on Friday. Speaking of Messi’s side, Bubista said: “We are proud to play against Argentina. We have a long relationship with this country. But above all, whoever the opponent, we will play with our own identity. We know Argentina have some of the world’s best players, and Messi, whom many consider the greatest of all time.”
During the match, the sound of the Cape Verde players celebrating drifted from the dressing room, just a few yards from the news-conference room.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report