Cabo Verde's medal-worthy feat: only team that stood up to both World Cup finalists!

As the World Cup reached its final stages, we now know who'll fight for the trophy and a bronze medal in the last two games of the tournament.

On Sunday night (00.00), France and England will face each other in a match for third place, while Spain and Argentina will lock horns in a battle for the world crown at MetLife Stadium in New York (22.00).

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However, if there's a team that deserved some kind of recognition - a consolation prize, an honourable mention, or simply a small badge of pride - it's Cabo Verde.

Not because their outstanding performances captured the hearts of football fans around the world and reminded us why we fell in love with football in the first place, but because of a more practical reason.

They are the only team that stood up to both World Cup finalists.

The Blue Sharks held Spain to a goalless draw in their opening game, which was the only clash in which La Roja neither won nor scored. Luis de la Fuente's men quickly proved it was only a bad day in the office, but Cabo Verde's role in that draw must not be overlooked.

Nineteen days later, Bubista's lads faced the other finalist, Argentina, and produced one of the most captivating performances of the tournament, winning over fans all around the globe.

They fought back from behind twice to rescue a 2-2 draw, only to fall in extra time and lose 3-2, though the Argentinians were on the ropes at one point and had to dig deep to avoid a penalty shootout.

Hence, Cabo Verde deserved another shoutout, as the true scale of their achievement has only become apparent now that Spain and Argentina have reached the final.

Hats off, Blue Sharks. Take a bow.

WORLD CUP - KNOCKOUT STAGE

Sunday

Match for third place

00.00: (2.00) France (3.75) England (3.60)

Final

22.00: (2.35) Spain (3.00) Argentina (3.60)

***odds are subject to change***