Cape Verde celebrates heroic World Cup defeat against Argentina
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Cape Verdeans celebrated in Praia after their national team, the Blue Sharks, narrowly lost 3-2 to reigning world champions Argentina in the World Cup knockout stages. Despite the defeat, fans viewed the performance as a victory, having pushed Argentina to extra time in their first-ever World Cup appearance. The team had advanced to the knockout stages after drawing with European champions Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia in the group stage. Supporters expressed pride in the team's achievement, with festivities continuing into the early morning. An own goal in the 111th minute ultimately decided the match in Argentina's favor. Fans and a diplomat described the game as feeling like a World Cup final, highlighting the unexpected success of the Atlantic island nation.
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