Cape Verde’s players captured global attention on Friday after their ecstatic, live reaction to learning they had qualified for the knockout stage of the World Cup went viral.

The team’s goalless draw against Saudi Arabia ensured a second-place finish in Group H — an outcome few had predicted, as Cape Verde had earned just three points overall.

Their first two points came from hard-fought draws against two footballing powerhouses, Spain and Uruguay — a 0-0 stalemate followed by a thrilling 2-2 draw.

Helio Varela was lifted in celebration after Cape Verde’s match with Saudi Arabia in Houston, Texas, marking a historic moment for the island nation.

Meanwhile, Uruguay’s disappointing campaign meant they finished level on two points with Saudi Arabia. Though Uruguay edged Saudi Arabia on goal difference, they failed to qualify as one of the eight best third-placed teams and were eliminated from the tournament.

However, at full time in Houston, Cape Verde’s players were still uncertain about their fate, as Uruguay’s match against Spain was concluding simultaneously.

Gathered on the pitch after their own final whistle, the Cape Verde squad anxiously awaited news from the other game. When confirmation arrived that Spain had beaten Uruguay 1-0, thus sealing Cape Verde’s passage to the last 32, scenes of pure euphoria erupted both on the field and in the stands.

Supporters were seen crying tears of joy, while others cheered and waved flags as players and staff members danced jubilantly on the pitch.

Later, in the dressing room, the players recorded themselves singing and dancing to chants of “1 per cent!” — referring to the minuscule odds bookmakers had given them to advance beyond the group stage.

Next, Cape Verde face another formidable challenge as they prepare to take on reigning champions Argentina in the round of 32.

In Massachusetts, Cape Verdean fans celebrated passionately, proud of their team’s remarkable success in Houston.

Speaking at his post-match press conference, head coach Bubista said: “For us, nothing is impossible. Both we and the people of Cape Verde should be proud of what we’ve achieved. Above all, we are honoured to have the chance to play Argentina.”

He added: “From the start, one of our goals was to showcase our country to the world. Facing Argentina and Messi at this stage is extraordinary for our nation, regardless of the result.”

Cape Verde, one of the lowest-ranked teams in the tournament, also made history as the smallest nation by population ever to reach the World Cup knockout rounds. The Atlantic island country, located off the west coast of Africa, has just over 500,000 inhabitants.

“We are small,” said 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha, who gained worldwide praise for his heroic performance against Spain, “but we have big hearts, and we are fighters.”