Cape Verde reaches the World Cup knockout stage for the first time

Cape Verde, a small island nation off the west coast of Africa, became the smallest nation to reach the knockout stages of a FIFA World Cup for the first time.

Cape Verde qualified for the next round after drawing 0-0 with Saudi Arabia in their final group match. The team drew three consecutive matches in the group stage, including a 0-0 draw against 2010 world champions Spain and an impressive 2-2 draw against Uruguay.

Goalkeeper Voznia, 40, played a key role in the team’s success. “We are a small country, but our hearts are big and we never give up,” he said.

Cape Verde head coach Bobista said the whole team was determined to show the world what they can do.

He said he was proud of the achievement. “We have shown that although our country is small, we fight hard to achieve our dreams.”