sports
Cape Verde Team Returns Home After Extra-Time Loss to Argentina in World Cup Round of 32
Cape Verde's national football team returned to Praia on Sunday to a massive airport reception after losing 3-2 to Argentina in extra time. The Blue Sharks had reached the round of 32 in their first World Cup appearance.
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Tens of thousands of fans gathered outside the airport in Praia on Sunday to welcome Cape Verde's national football team after its elimination from the World Cup. The Blue Sharks advanced from the group stage with three draws, including a 0-0 result against Spain, before losing 3-2 to Argentina in extra time.
Supporters filled the airport grounds, waving flags, dancing and chanting as the players arrived.
Some fans held signs and wore team jerseys while waiting for autographs. The homecoming coincided with Cape Verde marking 51 years since the end of Portuguese colonial rule. Cape Verde entered the tournament ranked 67th in the world and had never previously qualified.
The side held its own against several stronger opponents before exiting against the defending champions. Goalkeeper Vozinha told the BBC: "It is a very great moment for us to be here with our people. We wanted something bigger but we didn't go to the next stage.
Manager Pedro Leitão Brito said: "We showed that we may be a small country but we can play against the best teams in the world. That's a reason for pride. We made history for our country.
