Cabo Verde's women's national team has made its long-awaited debut at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, weeks after the men's team inspired the nation with a remarkable FIFA World Cup run..
For a country of just over half a million people, football has become something much bigger than a game. Across the capital, Praia, families gathered around television sets to witness Cabo Verde's first Women's Africa Cup of Nations match.
For many, simply seeing their team compete on Africa's biggest stage was already a moment of national pride.
Against one of Africa's traditional powerhouses, Ghana struck early through its player Doris Boaduwaa. Cabo Verde refused to fold, creating chances of their own before an unfortunate own goal made it two. The final score was a 2-nil defeat.
However, Marly da Luz, sister of Cabo Verde women's national team captain Varsenia da Luz, is fully confident of the next match.
"This time we couldn't win. We fought hard, but as I always say, we leave with our heads held high. A few things happened during the match that I believe the team will discuss. I'm sure they'll win the next game. I always stay positive," said Marly.
Rather than seeing the match as a loss, many supporters drew positive inspiration.
"Girls, you are good. You got here because you are strong, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. We are Cabo Verde. We never give up on what we want," said Elizaja Batista, a football fan.
"Whenever I watch Cabo Verde play, my heart beats so fast. I want us to win. My heart is racing from the beginning of the match until the very end," said Miriam Hellena, another football fan.
Expectations have grown. So has belief. Sunday's match against Mali could prove decisive for Cabo Verde's hopes of reaching the knockout stages. But inside the squad, there's confidence that this historic debut is only the first chapter.
"We already know the teams we're facing are major teams, but Cabo Verde's story is growing very quickly. What we'll do is play with determination and purpose. After the men's World Cup, we're still drawing inspiration from that success—it's still very fresh. We believe we can make a big impact in this competition," said Silveria Nedio, head coach of the women's football team.
Cabo Verde national team makes debut at Women's Africa Cup
