For the first time in its history, the small African island nation of Cape Verde is competing on the world's biggest football stage, the World Cup, and its presence is resonating deeply with its diaspora community in the UK.

The team’s unexpected success, including hard-fought draws against football powerhouses Spain and Uruguay, has brought the nation of just over 500,000 people into the global spotlight, much to the delight of Cape Verdeans living in Britain.

Young diaspora members like 13-year-old Lauryn have expressed profound pride, noting how their homeland, often difficult to locate on maps, is now a topic of widespread international conversation. The team's performance, particularly the goalkeeper's strong showing against Spain, has shifted perceptions from underdog to contender.

This unlikely World Cup journey has become a powerful symbol of hope and resilience for the Cape Verdean diaspora. The initial low expectations, highlighted by predictions of a mere 1% chance of success, have been transformed into a rallying cry of "99% faith" within the community.

The team’s ability to hold a formidable Spanish side to a 0-0 draw in their opening match was a significant achievement, setting the tone for their tournament. This was followed by an exhilarating 2-2 draw against Uruguay, a match described by members of the Cape Verdean Association UK as a "constant heart attack" due to its intense, back-and-forth nature.

Cape Verde, an archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean approximately 600km off the coast of mainland Africa, is one of the smallest nations ever to qualify for the World Cup. Its success challenges the notion that only larger, more established footballing nations can compete at the highest level.

This historic participation is not only a sporting achievement but also a cultural moment, fostering a sense of unity and shared identity among Cape Verdeans globally. The team's unexpected performances have captured the imagination of football fans worldwide, quickly making them a fan favourite.

As the tournament progresses, the diaspora community in the UK, estimated to be in the low thousands, continues to rally behind their national team, celebrating every moment of this groundbreaking World Cup campaign.