Cape Verde head coach Bubista declared that his team have "shown that nothing is impossible" after securing a historic meeting with Argentina in the last 32 of the World Cup. The tiny island nation became the smallest country by population to reach the knockout stages and the first debutants since 2010 to achieve this feat, following a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia in Houston.
Historic Achievement for Smallest Nation
The result saw Cape Verde finish second in Group H, a stunning accomplishment given they were considered outsiders in a group that also included Spain and Uruguay. Bubista's side progressed with three draws from their three group matches, a testament to their defensive resilience and tactical discipline.
In his post-match press conference, draped in his nation's flag, Bubista expressed pride at the example Cape Verde have set for football's supposed minnows. "It's us? I didn't know that," he said upon learning of the record they had broken. "In that case we have become an example that small countries also can have big objectives provided they have focus, determination and work with organisation. We have shown that nothing is impossible. We have represented our country but we also represent Africa and small countries around the world."
Journey to the Knockout Stage
Bubista reflected on the long road to this moment, noting that he always believed Cape Verde would eventually grace such a stage. "I've always said that, sooner or later, Cape Verde would be on such a stage. Of course it's hard to give that kind of forecast but we overcame several steps. We showed the world that you should not fear difficulties. Now we are in the knock-out stage and it's amazing for our people, for anyone who identifies with our team and especially for the players. They gave everything, and showed personality and discipline. When those come together you get this kind of outcome."
As Bubista spoke, the sounds of celebration could be heard from the dressing room, where players were reveling in their achievement. The coach offered no bold predictions about their prospects against reigning champions Argentina, whom they will face in Miami on Friday, but promised they would approach the task with the same appetite shown over the past fortnight.
Preparing for Argentina
"First of all we are proud to be able to play Argentina," Bubista said. "This is a country with which we have long standing ties. But above all our will is to do things with our identity regardless of who the opponent is. We will play our game with attitude and responsibility, knowing that Argentina have some of the best players in the world plus Messi, who some believe is the best of all time."
He added: "It is a reason of joy. From the very beginning we said we had the opportunity to show our country to the rest of the world. It's excellent for our country."
Saudi Arabia's Disappointment
On the other side, Saudi Arabia head coach Georgios Donis was downbeat about his team's performance. The former winger for Blackburn, Huddersfield and Sheffield United saw his side depart with just a single point, having rarely threatened to claim the win they needed. "We were very poor in terms of creating things, controlling the game and creating actions," Donis said. "One cannot win a game in this way."
