Cape Verde disembarks with celebration after historic World Cup campaign

The Cape Verde team was received with celebration and great pride this Sunday (5), the country's Independence Day, after its historic campaign in the World Cup. Thousands of fans took to the streets of Cidade da Praia, capital of the archipelago, to salute the "Blue Sharks" who, despite being eliminated, had the best performance in their history.

We have arrived

-- #FIFAWorldCup | #FIFAWorldCup2026 | #CapeVerde | #BlueSharks | #WeAreCaboVerde pic.twitter.com/bqQuH1UkeD

- Cape Verdean Football Federation (@fcfcomunica) July 5, 2026

The players' disembarkation coincided with the national date, doubling the feeling of patriotism in the celebrations. The Cape Verdean Football Federation (FCF) called on the population, who attended in large numbers, wearing the team's blue and carrying national flags.

The atmosphere was one of pure euphoria and celebration, with the crowd transforming the procession into a true popular party. Drums and peals dictated the rhythm of the celebration. One detail caught our attention: in addition to the sea of Cape Verdean flags, a large Brazilian flag was extended at the top of a ravine, symbolizing the strong cultural connection between the two nations.

Historic campaign and legacy
Despite the painful 3-2 defeat to Argentina in the round of 16, Cape Verde ended its participation with the best campaign in its history in the World Cup. This was the first time that the "Blue Sharks" were in a World Cup, surprising the planet by advancing to the knockout stage and challenging football giants.

The warm reception reinforced the historic impact of this campaign for the Cape Verdean people. As the Cape Verdean Federation highlighted on its social networks when announcing the return: "We will welcome our heroes", a feeling shared by the entire nation.

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Source: CNN