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Cape Verde's Blue Sharks Return to Heroes' Welcome in Praia After Historic World Cup Run

From ThisDay · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

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  • Cape Verde's national football team received a hero's welcome in Praia after a historic World Cup debut, with tens of thousands of fans celebrating.
  • Despite being eliminated by Argentina, the Blue Sharks' performance, including draws against Spain and holding Argentina to extra time, captivated supporters.
  • The team's achievement is celebrated on Cape Verde's independence day, marking a moment of national pride for the World Cup's second-smallest nation.

Tens of thousands of jubilant supporters transformed the capital city of Praia into a carnival as Cape Verde's national football team, the Blue Sharks, returned home. The team's historic debut at the World Cup concluded after a thrilling match against reigning champions Argentina, culminating in their elimination but cementing their place in national history.

It is a very great moment for us to be here with our people. We wanted something bigger but we didn’t go to the next stage. Now we just enjoy the moment and celebrate with our people.

— VozinhaThe goalkeeper expressed his feelings upon returning home to jubilant fans.

Fans filled the airport grounds, drumming, dancing, and waving the national flag to celebrate the team's remarkable journey. Goalkeeper Vozinha, a standout performer, expressed the team's joy: "It is a very great moment for us to be here with our people. We wanted something bigger but we didn’t go to the next stage. Now we just enjoy the moment and celebrate with our people."

Supporters lauded the Blue Sharks for representing the World Cup's second-smallest nation with pride. Having never participated in the tournament before, the team defied expectations, securing draws against formidable opponents like Spain and Uruguay. Their match against Argentina was particularly dramatic, with Cape Verde leveling the score multiple times, including in extra time, before a late deflection ended their run.

We showed that we may be a small country but we can play against the best teams in the world.

— Pedro Leitão Brito (Bubista)The manager reflected on the team's historic performance at the World Cup.

Manager Pedro Leitão Brito, known as Bubista, expressed immense pride in his team's performance. "We showed that we may be a small country but we can play against the best teams in the world," he stated. "We made history for our country. They can be proud for representing our country." The homecoming coincides with Cape Verde's 51st independence day, adding an extra layer of celebration for the nation.

That’s a reason for pride. We made history for our country. They can be proud for representing our country.

— Pedro Leitão Brito (Bubista)Highlighting the significance of the team's achievement for Cape Verde.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ThisDay in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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