Vozinha: Cape Verde's 'fighters with big hearts' face Messi in World Cup knockout

Cape Verde have become the smallest nation ever to reach the World Cup knockout stages, advancing as Group H runners-up after a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia in Houston. The islanders went unbeaten in the group, holding Spain to a goalless draw and drawing 2-2 with Uruguay, before players gathered around a phone to learn Spain had beaten Uruguay and secured their progress.

Captain and veteran 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha celebrated the achievement while looking ahead to a round-of-32 meeting with Argentina and Lionel Messi. "None of us dreamed of this, but we know we have quality and, when we got to the World Cup, perhaps many thought we wouldn't win any games," he said, calling the chance to face Argentina "a dream for any footballer." Vozinha also praised his team's performance in the final group match, noting their technical quality and tactical discipline.

"We didn't come here to secure a draw. We always sought to win... Everyone saw that we had more possession, more balls, and more opportunities.

Cape Verde, Houston

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