Despite losing to Argentina's Bubita, I am proud of the dignity and courage that Cape Verde displayed.

Cape Verde, nicknamed the "Blue Sharks," twice equalized after falling behind in the World Cup Round of 32, but conceded a crucial goal in extra time, ultimately losing 2-3 to defending champions Argentina. Bubita stated that although a somber atmosphere permeated the team, he was incredibly proud of the dignity and fearless courage displayed by his players.

During the match, Lisandro assisted Messi to score in the 29th minute, giving Argentina a 1-0 lead. In the 59th minute of the second half, Ryan Mendes passed the ball across the field, and Deroy Duarte slotted it home to level the score at 1-1 for Cape Verde.

In the 92nd minute of extra time, Messi took a corner kick, McAllister headed the ball across, and Lisandro received it, took a few steps, and then fired a powerful shot into the net, giving Argentina a 2-1 lead over Cape Verde. In the 103rd minute, Yannick Semedo passed the ball to Lopez Cabral, who curled a shot into the net from inside the penalty area, leveling the score at 2-2 for Cape Verde.

In the 111th minute, Messi took a corner kick, and Romero's header deflected off Dinhey Borges and into the net. Ultimately, Cape Verde lost 2-3 to Argentina, failing to advance to the round of 16.

Cape Verde coach Bubista said, "There is a sad atmosphere in the dressing room. We are certainly sad because we have to end this journey and we were really just a little bit away from advancing."

“I am proud of my players and their performance on the field. They played with dignity and showed fearless courage. I think Argentina proved why they are world champions, and I can also say that our team showed everyone our determination to defend this game.”

Bubita pointed out, "I don't think many teams can score two goals against Argentina and force the game into extra time. I think that's enough to demonstrate the character and strength of our team. The players were very brave and never lost their own style of play from start to finish."

"More than the competition itself, we hope to showcase Cape Verde's unique identity and style to the world. Throughout the tournament, as long as we are here, we want to give our all and bravely compete against the best teams in the world."

In addition, Cape Verde goalkeeper Chivonia said, "Our team gave it their all, and the whole team gave everything to win this game, but unfortunately we couldn't succeed in the end. We are disappointed with the result, but we have every reason to be happy and proud of this game and everything the team has achieved in this World Cup."

"As the national team, we have fully demonstrated Cape Verde's prowess to the world. We were just as formidable as Argentina when we faced them head-on."

Image source: Internet