Cape Verde celebrates World Cup campaign despite 2-1 loss to Argentina

PRAIA, Cape Verde — Fans poured into the streets of the capital Praia after Cape Verde lost 2-1 to Argentina, celebrating the national team's performance in the World Cup group stage. Crowds clapped, beat drums and sounded car horns as the final whistle blew, turning the defeat into a nationwide celebration. Known as the "Blue Sharks," Cape Verde reached the tournament finals for the first time and emerged as one of the surprise packages of the group phase, according to match reports. Despite the loss, players were greeted with a city tour as their squad returned home, with supporters describing the mood as a festive occasion across the country. The Cape Verde Football Federation said the team's fight was a source of pride for the nation's history. The match also marked Cape Verde's first goal and first point in a World Cup finals tournament. No further details on the team's next fixture were immediately available.