By Toby TAIWO
“After watching this tournament and today’s 2-2 draw, I have to say I was impressed. I don’t think African football gets the recognition it deserves. The quality, intensity, and confidence these teams play with is incredible.”
“People always talk about Europe and South America, but Africa belongs in that conversation too. If you’re still underestimating African football, you’re simply not watching the games.”
These are the inspiring assessments of Cape Verde and African football by football legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic after the newcomers came back from 2-0 to tie Uruguay at the World Cup.
Thierry Henry also heaped kind words on Cape Verde after the match.
“I can’t believe what I’m watching. These are the moments that make the FIFA World Cup the greatest tournament in football.
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People can debate formats or say it’s only a seven-game competition, but just look at the emotion from the Cape Verde players and supporters. That tells you everything you need to know about what this tournament means. These are moments that will be remembered forever.
“I honestly thought they were finished after going behind, but they refused to give up. They found another gear, showed incredible belief, and dragged themselves right back into the match. That’s the mentality you need on the biggest stage.
“Uruguay looked stunned after that equaliser. Cape Verde have made them uncomfortable, they’ve silenced them, and now they’ve turned this into a real battle. If the momentum stays like this, you genuinely wouldn’t rule out Cape Verde going on to win it.
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“They’re making life incredibly difficult for Uruguay, and that’s exactly what World Cup football is all about.”
Cape Verde can now dream of qualifying for the knockout stage as they prepare to go play their final Group match against Saudi Arabia
