Thousands welcome home Cape Verde footballers after stunning World Cup run

Cape Verde's football team have been welcomed home by tens of thousands of elated supporters following a historic run at the World Cup. The Blue Sharks flew into the capital city, Praia, on Sunday, having been knocked out of the tournament after a thrilling match against reigning champions Argentina.Jubilant fans transformed the airport's grounds into a carnival of sorts, banging drums, dancing, chanting and waving the national flag.Goalkeeper Vozinha, who drew global attention with his performances, told the BBC: "It is a very great moment for us to be here with our people.Michel Mvondo/BBCThe airport grounds turned into a sea of blue on Sunday"We wanted something bigger but we didn't go to the next stage. Now we just enjoy the moment and celebrate with our people," said Vozinha, real name Josimar José Évora Dias, while wearing a white T-shirt emblazoned with his country's name.One supporter told the BBC she attended the homecoming in order to show her gratitude to the Blue Sharks, who represented the World Cup's second-smallest nation and had never played in the tournament before, yet held their own against giants like Spain and Uruguay.Michel Mvondo/BBCPico Lopes, 33, played a starring role in Cape Verde's World Cup matches