Cape Verde nearly stunned Argentina and your 0–0 hurts more now

Cape Verde pushed Argentina to the edge

The team that knocked you out of the World Cup nearly did the same to Argentina. Cape Verde lost 3–2 after extra-time in the round of 16 on Friday, and Lionel Messi's side needed every minute to survive (1) (2).

Deroy Duarte gave Cape Verde the lead before Argentina pulled level. Lisandro Martinez then put Argentina ahead, only for Sidny Lopes Cabral to equalise late and force extra-time. Emi Martinez saved Cape Verde's penalty in the shootout that never was, Argentina found a winner before it got there (2).

Your 0–0 looks different now

Saudi Arabia 0–0 Cape Verde in the group stage. That result sent Cape Verde through to the round of 32 and confirmed your elimination. Watching them take Argentina to the limit a week later stings. The margins at this tournament were razor-thin (1).

Bubista: "We are sad because we believed"

Cape Verde manager Bubista did not hide the feeling after the final whistle. "We are sad because we believed we could go through," he said. His team came closer than anyone expected (2).

Fan reactions

Saudi fans are split. Some see Cape Verde's run as proof the group was stronger than critics claimed. Others are frustrated, the 0–0 draw that eliminated you now reads like a missed opportunity against a team that could have been beaten. The Argentina performance has reopened that wound. Read more on the Saudi Arabia subreddit