Cape Verde national football team coach Bubista has stated that his team will approach their 2026 FIFA World Cup elimination encounter against defending champions Argentina with the proper attitude.
Cape Verde qualified for the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in their inaugural campaign, drawing 0-0 with Saudi Arabia on Friday, becoming the smallest nation to ever reach the knockouts.
The West African team placed second in Group H with three points, remaining unbeaten in a group that included Spain and Uruguay. The team was drawn against holders Spain in the round of 32.
Coach Bubister said after his team’s 0-0 tie with Saudi Arabia that what they’ve accomplished is rather surprising.
“It’s a bit of a shock, although we’d always had it in mind that we might reach this stage after the first two matches,” Bubista said.
“We told the players they had to work hard and have confidence because the reward would come. And here we are. The people of Cape Verde should be proud of what this team has done so far. It’s something incredible,” he added.
For Bubister and his men, playing the Lionel Messi-led Argentina is an honor, but he stated that his team will approach the game with the right attitude and maintain their personality.
“They have Messi, who needs no introduction. We represent our island, but we also represent Africa. It’s a source of immense pride.”
“We’ll play our game with the right attitude and a sense of responsibility but also with our own personality and character.”
Chronicle NG reports that Cape Verde will play defending champions Argentina in the round of 32 on Friday, July 3, at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
