Cape Verde’s manager Bubista was proud of the way his team played after a thrilling 2-3 loss against defending champions Argentina in the round of 32 at the Miami Stadium on Friday. Argentina’s skipper Lionel Messi scored his seventh goal of the tournament after he controlled the ball like a magician with a brilliant first touch.
However, Deroy Duarte equalised for Cape Verde in the 59th minute and the match was taken to extra time. The reigning champions were quick to once again take advantage as Lisandaro Martinez scored his second Argentine goal in the 92nd minute.
But, Bubista’s team once again didn’t wave the white flag as Sidny Lopes Cabral scored a stunning goal as he found the back of the far post.
However, Diney scored an own goal in the 111th minute to extinguish all Cape Verde’s hopes of upsetting the world champions.
“I don’t think any other team could have scored two goals against Argentina,” said Bubista.
“It shows the character of our team and how skilled they are. We did our best and we did it with bravery. I’m so proud of what my players did.
“Being able to equalise twice shows how resilient our team is. I’m very proud of what we did throughout the tournament.
“I can only thank the team for their effort and for showing so much heart.”
Argentina’s boss Lionel Scaloni also doffed his hat for the opponents, who showed all the fight on the pitch.
“I have to give credit to our opponents,” Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said. “The truth is, when people say there’s no such thing as an easy opponent, today [Cape Verde] proved they’re a great team.”
Cape Verde’s goalkeeper Vozinha, who made seven saves against Spain, was full of praise for his teammates.
“Our team fought. Our team did everything it could to win the match,” Vozinha said. “We couldn’t do it, and we’re sad about the result. But we have every reason to be satisfied and proud of the match we played and of everything we achieved during this World Cup.”
He added: “We have dignified Cape Verde as a national team in most parts of the world. Today, we fought on an equal footing against Argentina.”
Argentina will face Egypt in the round of 16 on Tuesday.
