Connecticut’s Cape Verdean community is celebrating after the island country earned a scoreless draw against Spain in the nation’s historic World Cup debut, holding one of the tournament favorites and the world’s No. 2-ranked team without a goal.

Local Fans React

Fans in Bridgeport, home to a large Cape Verdean population, said the draw was a landmark moment for the small island nation of about 500,000 people off the coast of West Africa.

"It’s a historic moment. Today, we put Cape Verde on the map. People will now understand the tenacity, who we are as a community, as a nation," said John Gomes of Bridgeport.

Cape Verde entered the match as a heavy underdog against Spain but managed to secure a point in its opening World Cup match.

"We took it to them. It’s the David and Goliath story," Gomes said.

Fans credited Cape Verde’s defense with frustrating Spain’s attack, blocking shots and forcing off-target attempts throughout the match.

"I’m so proud of Cape Verde. We’re fearless. We have so much faith. They considered us underdogs, but we showed them we’re no one to be played with," said Nadja Fidalgo of Bridgeport.

One of the biggest stories from the match was the performance of 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha, who plays in Portugal’s second division. He stopped seven shots against Spain and became a national sensation.

"He’s killing it! Come on, Vozinha! Keep doing what you’re doing. The world is watching, and let’s go!" Fidalgo said.

The Cape Verde national team also has recent ties to Connecticut. The team played a friendly match at Pratt & Whitney Stadium in East Hartford nine days before its World Cup opener.

Connecticut is home to the third-largest Cape Verdean community in the United States, helping fuel interest and support for the national team throughout the tournament.

"The fact that the world is picking up on Cape Verde alone is everything to us. We’re so excited," Fidalgo said.

Even younger fans were impressed by the goalkeeper’s standout performance.

"He was good!" said 4-year-old Cade.

For many supporters, the draw itself was enough to make history, regardless of what happens during the rest of the tournament.

"We had nothing to lose giving it our best and they did that and we’re really proud of that," Gomes said.

Original reporting: NBC Connecticut (Hartford) — read the source article.