Cape Verde’s players and technical team received a hero’s welcome in Praia after returning home from a memorable debut campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The tournament’s surprise package exceeded expectations, earning global admiration with impressive performances against European champions Spain and reigning world champions Argentina.
Although their remarkable journey ended with a dramatic 3-2 Round of 32 defeat to Argentina, Cape Verde made history by becoming the smallest nation ever to reach the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup.
Thousands of jubilant supporters lined the streets of Praia on Sunday to welcome the team home, chanting the players’ names in celebration of their historic achievement.
Veteran goalkeeper Vozinha, one of the standout performers of the tournament, led the celebrations as the squad greeted fans during an open-top bus parade through the capital.
Several events have been organized to honor the team, including meetings with senior government officials to recognize their outstanding achievement.
Making their first-ever World Cup appearance, Cape Verde finished the group stage unbeaten after drawing with Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia, before narrowly bowing out to Argentina in the knockout rounds.
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