Farewell Cape Verde – the underdogs the World Cup will never forget

Cape Verde may have been the smallest nation at the World Cup, but they made an indelible mark on the tournament. Despite a heartbreaking 3-2 extra-time defeat to reigning champions Argentina, the Blue Sharks left the United States with widespread admiration.

The tournament debutants started with a goalless draw against European champions Spain, earning their first World Cup point. They then scored their first goals in a draw with Uruguay. But their most memorable performance came against Argentina. After falling behind to a Lionel Messi goal, they equalized. Then Sidny Lopes Cabral's stunning strike leveled the score again. However, a cruel deflection off Diney Borges from Cristian Romero's header sent Argentina through.

Former England defender Gary Neville called it "one of the greatest performances from an underdog" he had ever seen. Ian Wright urged FIFA to ensure such moments are possible for other small nations.

Cape Verde manager Bubista beamed with pride: "We showed that we may be a small country but we can play against the best teams. This is a historic achievement." Defender Roberto 'Pico' Lopes added: "Nobody asks where Cape Verde is on the map anymore – we've put ourselves on the map."

Though their journey ended, Cape Verde's spirit and passion will be remembered as a highlight of the World Cup.