Cape Verde scripted history by becoming the smallest nation ever to reach the FIFA World Cup knockout stages, finishing second in Group H. Now they face Lionel Messi's Argentina in the Round of 32, and it is a huge achievement for the Atlantic island country. They were held to a goalless draw by Saudi Arabia in their final group stage fixture.
Cape Verde's Vozinha had a message for Lionel Messi's Argentina. (REUTERS)
{{^htLoading}} {{/htLoading}}
Cape Verde didn't lose a single match in the group stage and began their campaign with a goalless draw against Spain, courtesy of some heroic saves from goalkeeper Vozinha. Then they drew 2- 2 with Uruguay in the second fixture.
'It's a dream for any footballer to play against Argentina and Lionel Messi'
Gearing up for the knockouts, Vozinha said, "None of us dreamed of this, but we know we have quality and, when we got to the World Cup, perhaps many thought we wouldn't win any games. We have a great team and quality players. It's gratifying to have qualified for the next phase and facing Argentina will be very good. It's a dream for any footballer to play against Argentina and Lionel Messi."
{{^htLoading}} {{/htLoading}}
{{^usCountry}}
"We didn't come here to secure a draw. We always sought to win. We knew it wasn't going to be easy. Saudi Arabia also has a lot of quality and is used to these kinds of matches. We tried everything to score, but we couldn't. Everyone saw that we had more possession, more balls, and more opportunities. We deserve congratulations."
{{/usCountry}}
{{#usCountry}}
"We didn't come here to secure a draw. We always sought to win. We knew it wasn't going to be easy. Saudi Arabia also has a lot of quality and is used to these kinds of matches. We tried everything to score, but we couldn't. Everyone saw that we had more possession, more balls, and more opportunities. We deserve congratulations."
{{/usCountry}}
Hoping to inspire future generations from Cape Verde, he said, "We are from a small country, but we know how to compete. Perhaps most people think that Cape Verdean players aren't good enough, but we've shown that we have quality, we're here to compete, and we can compete in any major competition."
"We grew up with immense difficulties, and our parents and grandparents sacrificed and taught us to value things. We've shown the resilience of the Cape Verdean people, the passion we have for our country, and also that we're here to represent not only the players, but all Cape Verdeans scattered around the world. We have big hearts and we are fighters.
{{^htLoading}} {{/htLoading}}
"When a child cries in front of us, there are no words to describe it. We are here to be an example for the little ones and not only them. Who knows if from now on we won't have role models that children can look up to and say that one day they want to be like Stopira, Ryan Mendes or another player from the Cape Verde national team."
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results.
A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.
Stay updated with the latest sports news, including latest headlines and updates from the Durand Cup Final Live. Catch all the action from tennis Grand Slam tournaments, follow your favourite football teams and players with the latest match results, and get the latest on international hockey tournaments and series.
Stay updated with the latest sports news, including latest headlines and updates from the Durand Cup Final Live. Catch all the action from tennis Grand Slam tournaments, follow your favourite football teams and players with the latest match results, and get the latest on international hockey tournaments and series.
Home/Sports/Football/Vozinha fires warning before Lionel Messi showdown as Cape Verde set up Argentina clash: 'We can compete with anyone'
{{^htLoading}}
Advertisement
{{/htLoading}}
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
{{#usCountry}}{{/usCountry}}
Hindustantimes wants to start sending you push notifications. Click allow to subscribe
