Cape Verde were eliminated from the World Cup in the round of 32 following a 3-2 extra-time defeat to Argentina in Miami on July 3, ending a memorable debut campaign that captured global attention.
The African nation advanced from their group after drawing all three matches, including a 2-2 result against Uruguay and a goalless stalemate with Spain. Against Argentina, Lionel Messi opened the scoring before Deroy Duarte and Sidny Lopes Cabral each equalized, with Cristian Romero's 111th-minute header ultimately deciding the tie.
Remarkably, six squad members were born in Rotterdam, and five featured in the Argentina match. Goalkeeper Vozinha made 18 saves throughout the tournament, the third-highest tally at the competition.