Thousands of supporters greeted the Cape Verde national team at Praia airport after their historic World Cup run ended in a dramatic extra‑time loss to Argentina.
Goalkeeper Josimar José Évora Dias, known as Vozinha, said: "It is a very great moment for us to be here with our people." He added that the team will enjoy the celebration despite missing the next stage.
Cape Verde, ranked 67th, had drawn all three group matches, including a 0‑0 stalemate with Spain, and impressed against Uruguay before upsetting giants in the knockout round.
Argentina eventually prevailed after extra time, eliminating the Blue Sharks and advancing to the quarter‑finals.
Vozinha, a 40‑year‑old goalkeeper, plays for a Portuguese club. In May 2016 he left his previous side and in August 2016 signed for Gil Vicente. Since September 2012 he has been a Cape Verde international.