The head coach of Cape Verde, Bubista, expressed his team’s belief that “shown that nothing is impossible” following their remarkable advancement to face Argentina in the knockout stage of the World Cup.
Cape Verde has made history as the least populous nation to reach this phase, becoming the first newcomers since 2010 to achieve this feat after securing a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia in Houston. This result catapulted them to second place in Group H, a stunning accomplishment considering they were viewed as underdogs in a group that also included Spain and Uruguay.
After the match, a proud Bubista, who donned his nation’s flag throughout the post-match press conference, highlighted the significant message Cape Verde has sent to smaller footballing nations around the globe.
“It’s us? I didn’t know that,” he responded when informed of their groundbreaking achievement. “In that case we have become an example that small countries also can have big objectives provided they have focus, determination and work with organisation. We have shown that nothing is impossible. We have represented our country but we also represent Africa and small countries around the world. “I’ve always said that, sooner or later, Cape Verde would be on such a stage. Of course it’s hard to give that kind of forecast but we overcame several steps. We showed the world that you should not fear difficulties. Now we are in the knockout stage and it’s amazing for our people, for anyone who identifies with our team and especially for the players. They gave everything, and showed personality and discipline. When those come together you get this kind of outcome.”
He continued, reflecting on the journey to this point.
“First of all we are proud to be able to play Argentina,”
As he spoke, celebrations echoed from the dressing room just a few yards away. While Bubista refrained from making bold claims about the upcoming match against the reigning champions, Argentina, scheduled for Friday in Miami, he assured that his team would tackle the challenge with the same zeal displayed over the past two weeks.
“This is a country with which we have longstanding ties. But above all our will is to do things with our identity regardless of who the opponent is. We will play our game with attitude and responsibility, knowing that Argentina have some of the best players in the world plus Messi, who some believe is the best of all time. “It is a reason of joy. From the very beginning we said we had the opportunity to show our country to the rest of the world. It’s excellent for our country.” he stated. “We were very poor in terms of creating things, controlling the game and creating actions,”
He added, “One cannot win a game in this way.”
On the other hand, Georgios Donis, the coach of Saudi Arabia and a former player for Blackburn, Huddersfield, and Sheffield United, expressed disappointment over his team’s performance. With only a single point to show for their efforts, the team struggled to create opportunities or control the game. “We were very poor in terms of creating things, controlling the game and creating actions,” he lamented. “One cannot win a game in this way.”
