Tuesday, June 16, 12:15 p.m.
Underdog Cape Verde stuns Spain
In its first World Cup appearance, the scrappy team from the small island nation of Cape Verde held its own against powerhouse Spain at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Monday.
Ranked 61 in the world, Cape Verde achieved a 0-0 draw against third-ranked Spain.
Located less than 400 miles off the coast of West Africa, Cape Verde’s nearly 600,000 residents were jubilant over the team’s performance, especially that of goalkeeper Josimar José Évora Dias. Known as Vozinha, he shut down Spain with seven saves on 27 shots and earned FIFA’s Man of the Match honors.
“I think it is the most important moment of our lives,” Vozinha, which means “Little Voice,” told ESPN Brasil before the tournament.
Overcome with emotion after the hard-fought match that many are calling a victory, the 19-year soccer veteran picked up 5 million new followers on social media.
“I cried because I grew up with my grandparents and unfortunately they were not here; they died a few years ago,” Vozinha told reporters after the game. “They were everything for me, for my life. I also cried because my mum didn’t manage to be here because of the visa. Because of the money we had to pay for the visa, we didn’t manage to [get it done] on time. I would like her to be here, but I’m also very happy.”
Vozinha also knew what the team’s performance meant to his country.
“I have worked my whole life for this moment,” Vozinha said. “I’m 40 years old. I started playing football professionally when I was 25, in 2012. I thought about leaving, but I continued because of this dream. This is for everyone. I was named man of the match, but this is for all of my teammates because without them nothing would be possible. I will continue to work for Cape Verde and for the people.”
Next up, Cape Verde faces Uruguay in Miami on Sunday.
Monday, June 15, 11:15 a.m.
Cape Verde faces Spain, and Fan Fest energy
A plane full of Cape Verde fans touched down at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport this weekend to cheer on their underdog team as they face off against Spain today at noon.
The match will be played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. For those without tickets, Centennial Olympic Park offers a free public watch party at FIFA Fan Festival, or you can watch on Fox.
At the FIFA Fan Festival on Sunday, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens joined local residents and fans from around the world to celebrate the start of the games.
“Families were out, kids were playing soccer, fans from around the world were exploring Downtown, and the energy was exactly what we’ve been preparing for,” Dickens posted on Instagram. “If this opening weekend is any sign of what’s ahead, we’re going to have an incredible summer.”
Dickens has said the city expects between 300,000-500,000 visitors during the 34-day tournament.
You can watch all matches at Centennial Park while also enjoying live events, games, and guest appearances. Fans can also hit the Decatur MARTA station for another free watch party featuring three screens.
Today’s opening match is the first of eight games to be played in the city. Check out our listing of other events!
This story has been updated.
