Cape Verde's president, José Maria Neves, has predicted his country will defeat defending champions Argentina in their Round of 32 clash at the World
Cape Verde’s president, José Maria Neves, has predicted his country will defeat defending champions Argentina in their Round of 32 clash at the World Cup, declaring the small island nation is continuing to “write their destiny.”
Speaking to the BBC in an exclusive interview in the capital, Praia, Neves said he believes Cape Verde “can beat Argentina 1-0.” He added that when expectations for a team are low but that team is determined to win, an upset becomes possible, and said a small nation like his should always strive to surprise people.
His comments come ahead of Friday’s Round of 32 clash between the Blue Sharks and Argentina’s La Albiceleste in Miami, kicking off at 22:00 GMT. Cape Verde, a group of ten islands in the Atlantic Ocean, are appearing at their first-ever World Cup and have already made history as the smallest nation to reach the knockout stages.
The team opened their campaign with a goalless draw against Spain, inspired by the heroics of 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha, before holding two-time champions Uruguay to a 2-2 draw.
A third successive draw, this time against Saudi Arabia, was enough to see them finish as Group H runners-up after Spain beat Uruguay in the final round of fixtures.
Sixty-three places separate the two sides in the FIFA world rankings, with Argentina rated the best team on the planet and Cape Verde ranked only 13th in Africa. Despite the gulf in quality, Neves insisted his squad’s spirit gives them a real chance, saying they carry full belief heading into the tie.
The president added that Cape Verde will face Lionel Messi and his teammates with the same determination they have shown throughout the tournament, driven by a desire to win and advance to the next round.
His confidence echoed comments from Cape Verde head coach Pedro Leitão Brito, known as Bubista, who told reporters at the weekend that nothing is impossible for his side. Midfielder Deroy Duarte also said the tie feels like a dream, while acknowledging the challenge ahead.
Neves said that whatever the result, Cape Verde will leave the World Cup with their heads held high, having already accomplished their mission of representing their country on the biggest stage in football.
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