Cape Verde's World Cup journey inspires small nations, says defender Pico Lopes
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Cape Verde defender Pico Lopes stated that the team's performance at the World Cup serves as an example for other small nations. The islanders nearly caused a major upset against Argentina, with the defending champions securing a win in extra-time due to a Diney Borges own goal. Cape Verde, a nation of just over 500,000 people, achieved draws against Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia in their first World Cup appearance. Lopes, who was recruited via LinkedIn, expressed hope that their achievements would inspire young Cape Verdeans. Goalkeeper Vozinha, 40, saw his social media following surge during the tournament and expressed pride in the team's accomplishments, despite their elimination. He acknowledged the tough opponent but praised his teammates' performance. Cape Verde twice equalized against Argentina, with Deroy Duarte forcing extra-time and Sidny Lopes Cabral scoring a stunning goal, before the own goal sealed their fate. Lopes noted that the team's World Cup presence has put Cape Verde on the map, ensuring people now know its location and the team's capabilities.
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France captain Kylian Mbappé has become the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup knockout-stage history, achieving 10 goals. The 27-year-old reached this milestone after scoring two goals in France’s 3-0 victory over Sweden in the Round of 32 on June 30. Mbappé's average of 1.11 knockout-stage goals per game is the highest among active players on the list. Argentina captain Lionel Messi is among four players with six knockout-stage goals, having added to his tally in Argentina’s 3-2 extra-time win against Cape Verde. According to FIFA, only 20 players in World Cup history have scored at least five goals in knockout matches. FIFA also noted that comparisons across different eras should consider the evolving World Cup format, as tournaments like 1934 and 1938 were entirely knockout-based, while the 1950 World Cup had no knockout stage, and other editions featured limited knockout matches.
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