He prepared a huge surprise for the Cape Verde team

Cape Verde are set to return home after an honorable exit against Argentina in the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the world champions won 3-2 after extra time, after the island nation came close to one of the tournament’s biggest surprises.

The team leaves the United States today, Saturday, for the capital city of Praia, where it is expected to arrive tomorrow, Sunday, to welcome thousands of fans who will celebrate the team’s remarkable performance at the World Cup.

The Cape Verdean side performed heroically in the tournament, drawing 0-0 with Spain and Saudi Arabia, then holding Uruguay 2-2, before narrowly losing to Argentina in extra time, leaving the competition with their heads held high after a performance that earned them the respect of fans around the world.

The players are expected to be received at Praia Airport by an official government delegation before they walk through the streets of the capital in a grand celebratory procession, followed by a public ceremony that includes official speeches by goalkeeper Fuzinha, in addition to musical performances and popular celebrations expressing the country’s pride in the team winning its first historic World Cup appearance.

This recognition comes in recognition of the fighting spirit shown by the Cape Verdean players, who wrote a new chapter in the history of African and international football with their outstanding performances and bravery against the big teams.