Cape Verde's historic night in Houston

Cape Verde have written one of the most remarkable stories of the FIFA World Cup, becoming the smallest nation ever to reach the knockout stage in their tournament debut. The island nation of just over 500,000 people secured a historic place in the last 32 after a resilient 0-0 draw against Saudi Arabia in Houston. Combined with Spain's 1-0 victory over Uruguay, the result was enough to send Cape Verde through as Group H runners-up behind Spain. After drawing all three group matches, Cape Verde have defied expectations at every turn. They stunned the football world by holding European champions Spain to a goalless draw in their opening match, followed it up with an impressive 2-2 result against two-time world champions Uruguay, and then displayed immense composure to earn the crucial point needed against Saudi Arabia. The emotional scenes after the final whistle reflected the magnitude of the achievement. Players and supporters waited anxiously for confirmation of Spain's result before erupting in celebration, with tears of joy marking a historic moment for the nation. Cape Verde will face reigning world champions Argentina and Lionel Messi in Miami on July 3, carrying with them the hopes of a nation and the admiration of football fans around the globe. From a small archipelago off Africa's Atlantic coast to the grandest stage in world football, Cape Verde have already achieved the extraordinary. But their remarkable journey is far from over.
PHOTO: REUTERS