Cape Verde Team Draws 10,000s in Praia After Historic World Cup Last-16 Run
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jul 5
Cape Verde Team Draws 10,000s in Praia After Historic World Cup Last-16 Run
3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jul 5
Summary
Tens of thousands of supporters turned Praia airport into a carnival on Sunday, welcoming Cape Verde's players home after the country's first World Cup appearance ended in the knockout stage.
The Blue Sharks, ranked 67th before the tournament, built that run on three group-stage draws, including a 0-0 result against European champions Spain.
Argentina finally eliminated Cape Verde after a 2-2 battle that reached extra time, with the underdogs twice leveling before a deflected Cristian Romero header decided the match.
51 years after independence from Portugal, the homecoming coincided with Cape Verde's national day, giving the celebrations wider significance beyond football.