Cape Verde fans in Netherlands emphasize pride in team after 3-2 loss to Argentina
Cape Verde supporters in Rotterdam reacted with both pride and sadness after their team lost 3-2 to Argentina after extra time in a World Cup knockout match on Saturday. Hundreds gathered at the Maassilo and other locations to watch together. Five of Cape Verde’s players were born in Rotterdam, while another six members of the team were born elsewhere in the Netherlands.
Argentina led through a first-half goal by Lionel Messi. Cape Verde equalized and later scored again, including a goal from Sidny Lopes Cabral, which brought the score to 2-2. The match went to extra time, where Argentina scored the winner to seal a 3-2 result after 120 minutes.
Supporters highlighted Cape Verde’s resilience against the reigning world champions. Goalkeeper Vozinha was again noted for key saves, including composure in a one-on-one with Messi.
“It was, in one word, amazing,” one supporter told ESPN. “I am so proud of everything. I have enjoyed the entire World Cup, also how everyone has come together globally. I already said it: we are going to go far because of the energy and support. The unity is really insane.”
Another supporter said, “You are playing against the world champions. If you are a small island group and you get that one percent chance and you make it this far…”
A fan also praised Sidny Lopes Cabral’s goal, saying, "The 1-1 was already lovely, but look how he places it into the top corner. Yes, beautiful." The supporter added that it deserved consideration for the Puskás Award for goal of the season.
