A small nation of 540,000 people bids a proud farewell! Held three world champions to draws within 90 minutes, pushing Argentina to the brink

In a key match of the World Cup Round of 16 concluded on July 4th Beijing time, debutant Cape Verde narrowly lost 2-3 after extra time to defending champions Argentina, exiting in the round of 32. Despite not advancing to the last 16 to make more history, Cape Verde's performance in this match and the tournament undoubtedly earned the respect of all spectators.【Watch the World Cup on Migu Video】

Most fans likely knew little about the nation of Cape Verde before the World Cup began. Yet this African island country, with a population of only 540,000, continually created miracles.

In the group stage, they remained unbeaten with three draws. They successively held two former World Cup champions, Spain and Uruguay, to draws. After drawing with Saudi Arabia in their final group match, Cape Verde successfully secured second place in the group with three points, advancing to the knockout stage in their debut appearance.

In the Round of 16 match against the defending champions Argentina, Cape Verde once again showcased their remarkable form, leveling the score in the second half to force the game into extra time.

During extra time, Cape Verde once again equalized with a spectacular long-range goal, repeatedly putting Argentina in a difficult position. The 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha continued his excellent form throughout the tournament, making eight saves in the match, including stopping a one-on-one chance from Messi and two dangerous free-kick attempts.

Although Cape Verde ultimately lost 2-3 to the defending champions in extra time, the achievement of holding three World Cup-winning nations to draws within 90 minutes at this World Cup is already a remarkable accomplishment.

These records will not be erased by a single extra-time loss. At this World Cup, they have already written a legend for football from a small nation.

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