India, June 27 -- Cape Verde scripted history by becoming the smallest nation ever to reach the FIFA World Cup knockout stages, finishing second in Group H. Now they face Lionel Messi's Argentina in the Round of 32, and it is a huge achievement for the Atlantic island country. They were held to a goalless draw by Saudi Arabia in their final group stage fixture.

Cape Verde didn't lose a single match in the group stage and began their campaign with a goalless draw against Spain, of some heroic saves from goalkeeper Vozinha. Then they drew 2- 2 with Uruguay in the second fixture.

Gearing up for the knockouts, Vozinha said, "None of us dreamed of this, but we know we have quality and, when we got to the World Cup, perhaps many thought we wo...