For 13-year-old Lauryn, finding Cape Verde on a map has always been a challenge. But now the tiny archipelago off Africa's coast is the center of the world's attention. "Seeing my country shown everywhere at the World Cup makes me incredibly proud," Lauryn shared. "After the first match, everyone was talking about Cape Verde. They saw the talent and technique of the players."
Cape Verde, also known as Cabo Verde, is making its first World Cup appearance in history. With a population of just over 500,000, it is one of the smallest nations ever to qualify for the tournament. The team has defied all expectations by holding Spain to a 0-0 draw and then a dramatic 2-2 draw against Uruguay.
"It was a constant heart attack," said Annabella Lopes of the Cape Verde Association in the UK, describing the match against Uruguay. Before the tournament, many gave Cape Verde just a 1% chance of victory. That has become the community's rallying cry: "They gave us a 1% chance, but we have 99% belief."
Cape Verde now prepares for its final group-stage match against Saudi Arabia in Houston, Texas. A win would send them into the knockout round, while a draw could also see them advance as one of the best third-placed teams. The match kicks off at 1 a.m. British time on Saturday.
Lauryn's brother, 10-year-old Joylen, who plays at Chelsea's academy, said: "I think we can definitely go far. I know people shouldn't underestimate us." The tournament has also inspired him: "It makes me want to reach the highest level."
Veteran goalkeeper Vozinha has become a social media sensation, with his Instagram following jumping from a few hundred thousand to nearly 10 million after just two matches. Nancy Rodrigues, a 38-year-old NHS physiotherapist who once lived in Angola and knows Vozinha, said: "He is truly kind and deserves all the attention. It's wonderful that people are getting to know Cape Verde through him."
Elisangela, a 36-year-old accountant, said the team's success "has lit up the Cape Verdean community worldwide." She added: "People are calling each other, checking in and sharing how they are living through this moment with family and friends."
Christina, mother of Lauryn and Joylen, hopes the team's success will spark interest in Cape Verde beyond football. "We are creative people. There is so much talent—not only in football but in music, literature, and the arts." She takes particular pride in head coach Bubista, who makes a point of giving gifts to opposing coaches before every match. "That is part of who we are. We come as warriors on the pitch, but we still respect each other. People are seeing humility, unity, and tears of passion. It is beautiful."
Ms. Lopes emphasized: "The success on the pitch reflects the resilience and strength of our people. Being small and unknown does not mean you cannot achieve great things." She added: "What matters is participating. Cape Verde is participating, competing, achieving, and making history."
