Praia, July 5 -- Cape Verde's national football team received a hero's welcome on their return home, with thousands of fans gathering at Nelson Mandela Praia International Airport to celebrate the Blue Sharks' historic 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.

The homecoming marked a proud milestone for the island nation, as Cape Verde became the smallest country by population to reach the FIFA World Cup knockout stage.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DaaXXcKsV_l/?igsh=MTNnZGtuc3hzZmliOQ%3D%3D

Despite their remarkable run ending in a thrilling 3-2 defeat to defending champions Argentina in the Round of 32, the team returned to an emotional and rapturous reception, having won widespread admiration for their fearless performances on the global stage....