Cape Verde, or Cabo Verde as the diaspora community in the UK knows it, is having a historic run at their first ever World Cup. The African nation, made up of 10 islands, has defied expectations by holding its own against the tournament’s leading teams. Located in the Atlantic Ocean about 370 miles (600km) off the coast of mainland Africa, and with a population of just over 500,000, it is one of the smallest nations to compete at the tournament.
For 13-year-old Lauryn, seeing Cape Verde on the world stage has been a dream come true. ‘Seeing our country shown across the world at the World Cup makes me feel incredibly proud,’ she says. ‘After the first match, everyone was talking about Cape Verde. People saw the talent and the skill of our players.’ The team’s performance has been a rallying cry for the Cape Verdean community in Britain, with many embracing the underdog spirit. ‘Our slogan in the Cape Verdean community became: ‘They gave us 1% chance, but we had 99% faith,’ says Lauryn. The team held a stunned Spain to a 0-0 draw.
Their next match, against Uruguay, felt like a ‘constant heart attack’, says Annabella Lopes of the Cape Verdean Association UK. The game ended 2-2. Now, the team, quickly becoming fans’ favourite underdogs, face Saudi Arabia in their final group stage match, which kicks off at 9pm ET on Friday in Houston, Texas – or 1am Saturday for Lauryn and others watching in the UK.
A win will secure them a historic spot in the knockouts, while a draw will give them a fighting chance to qualify as one of the eight best third-placed teams. The team’s success has also inspired the younger generation, including 10-year-old Joylen, who plays football for Chelsea’s academy. ‘I think we can definitely go very far,’ he says. ‘I knew people shouldn’t underestimate us because if we can draw against Spain and Uruguay, imagine what we can do against other teams.’ The team’s performance has sent a powerful message to the Cape Verde diaspora community and those from small countries. ‘The success happening on the pitch reflects the resilience and strength of our people,’ says Annabella Lopes of the Cape Verdean Association UK. ‘The fact that you are small, and the fact that people don’t know you, doesn’t mean you can’t achieve great things.’ The team’s veteran goalkeeper, Vozinha, has been particularly praised, with his Instagram followers increasing from hundreds of thousands to nearly 10 million over the space of two games. The team’s success has electrified the diaspora community worldwide, with many excitedly following their progress. ‘We have never experienced a moment like this before,’ says Elisangela, a 36-year-old accountant. ‘Everyone is excited.
People are calling each other, checking in and asking how they’re feeling and how they’re living through this moment with their families and friends.’ The team’s success has also led to interest in the country beyond football, with many hoping to learn more about Cape Verde’s culture and values. ‘We are creative people,’ says Cristina, Lauryn and Joylen’s mother. ‘There is so much talent, not only in football but also in music, literature, and the arts.’ The team’s manager, Bubista, has been praised for his tradition of giving a gift to the coach of the opposing team before each game, showcasing the country’s values of humility and respect. ‘That’s part of who we are,’ says Cristina. ‘We come as warriors on the pitch, but we honour and respect one another.’
