Cape Verde's dramatic World Cup debut ended in the Round of 32 following a 3-2 extra-time loss to defending champions Argentina in Miami, but supporters left the stadium celebrating what many called a landmark moment for the tiny island nation. The Africa's smallest World Cup qualifier by land area twice equalized against the reigning champions before an own goal in extra time settled the contest, sparing Argentina from what would have been one of the biggest upsets in tournament history. "Now, the whole world knows about Cabo Verde โ€” that's how you pronounce it, not Cape Verde," said 65-year-old Prieto Fernandes, who left the stadium wearing a replica shirt with pride despite the loss, using the country's Portuguese name. Fernandes, who moved to the US four decades ago and recalled a time when almost no one had heard of his homeland, said the team's performance reflected the country's spirit: "We do everything with a big heart and it's there for everyone to see." Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, who became a breakout star of the tournament after helping secure a shock opening-game draw against European champions Spain, said the team had left nothing on the field. "Being able to equalise twice shows how resilient our team is. I'm very proud of what we did throughout the tournament," he said. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni offered similar praise, saying, "The truth is, when people say there's no such thing as an easy opponent, today [Cape Verde] proved they're a great team." Cape Verde, an archipelago of roughly 500,000 people located off Africa's west coast, advanced from the group stage after also drawing 2-2 with two-time champions Uruguay and 0-0 with Saudi Arabia โ€” a run that ignited celebrations back home and turned the debutants into one of the tournament's most popular underdog stories. The team will receive $11 million from FIFA for its participation. Fans described the run as validation after being dismissed as overwhelming underdogs. "People doubted us," said supporter Vega. "They told us we had a 1 percent chance of winning but we matched Lionel Messi's team." Interest in the country has surged as a result, with fans noting rising curiosity abroad about Cape Verdean culture, including its national dish, cachupa, a corn-and-bean stew.