Cabo Verde coach gifts pennant to Argentina's Scaloni before World Cup match

Seconds before the 2026 World Cup qualifier kicked off, Cabo Verde's coach, Pedro Leitão Brito, known as “Bubista,” approached the Argentine team's bench. He presented a pennant to Lionel Scaloni, who accepted with a simple "Thank you very much." The moment, sealed with a handshake, occurred just before the referee started the match.

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one of the best coaches in the world

Bubista had recently praised Scaloni as "one of the best coaches in the world." Earlier, Cabo Verde's President José Maria Neves had revealed the team's intention to prepare a gift for Lionel Messi. "He is one of my idols in football, like millions of people in the world," Neves stated, adding, "I think because of his path, Messi deserves a Cabo Verde jersey with the number 10 engraved."

Neves also expressed pride in his nation's "Blue Sharks" performance in the World Cup, calling their qualification a significant achievement. He acknowledged facing strong opponents like Spain, Uruguay, and now Argentina, vowing to "try to do our best on the field." The article also touches on the historical ties between the nations, noting that approximately 25,000 Cabo Verdeans and their descendants live in Argentina, forming one of the oldest communities in Latin America. Many settled in port areas like La Plata and Dock Sud, reflecting their maritime heritage on the islands.

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He is one of my idols in football, like millions of people in the world. I think because of his path, Messi deserves a jersey of Cabo Verde with the number 10 engraved.

Argentina and Cabo Verde were set to face off in Miami, USA, in the Round of 16. The winner would advance to play Egypt, who had previously defeated Australia on penalties.

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We are very proud with the Blue Sharks in the World Cup. Our qualification is already a great achievement. In this Cup we have faced champions. First Spain, then Uruguay. And we are going to face another great champion, which is Argentina. And we are going to try to do our best on the field.