CORNERFLICK
Cape Verde have become one of the clearest symbols of FIFA’s expanded 48-team World Cup after reaching the knockout stage for the first time.
The scene at Houston summed it up: players huddled around a mobile phone to watch the closing minutes of Spain’s win over Uruguay, then burst into celebration. In the stands, Cape Verde supporters sang, danced and cried as the country of fewer than 500,000 people marked its place in the last 16.
They finished second in Group H after a goalless draw with Saudi Arabia, which secured progression. Coach Bubista had said before that match that the World Cup should be for all countries, not only football’s biggest powers.
Cape Verde go on to face reigning champions Argentina in Miami on 3 July. Their route has included three draws and a reputation for stubborn defending, especially in the opening match against Spain. Whatever happens next, they have already produced a story that will linger long after the tournament.