Cape Verde's World Cup team returns home to huge welcome
AP News • • sports
Key Points:
- Cape Verde celebrated Independence Day with added enthusiasm as the national soccer team returned home after reaching the round of 32 in the World Cup and pushing Argentina to extra time.
- The men's basketball team also secured a spot in the second round of World Cup qualifying, marking their inaugural World Cup appearance in 2023.
- The soccer team's arrival in Cape Verde was met with widespread jubilation, including a parade through thousands of fans, drumming, dancing, and heartfelt celebrations.
- Cape Verde, with a population of about 500,000, is the smallest country by land mass ever to qualify for the World Cup, highlighting the significance of these sporting achievements.
- Both teams expressed pride and dedication to their country, with basketball coach Emanuel Trovoada and defender Pico Lopes emphasizing the historic nature of their accomplishments.
