Boston's Cape Verde community rallies behind Blue Sharks ahead of historic World Cup debut

Cape Verde's historic FIFA World Cup debut has united thousands of supporters across the United States, with members of the country's large diaspora preparing to back the Blue Sharks in Atlanta.Among them is Boston barber Antonio Alves, whose Dorchester shop has become a gathering place for Cape Verdean fans ahead of Monday's Group H clash against Spain."It means everything that Cape Verde will be playing in the United States at the World Cup," Alves said.Having travelled back to Praia to watch Cape Verde qualify, Alves said many doubted the country would ever reach football's biggest stage."The rest of the world said, 'No chance, no way are Cape Verde getting this close.' But here we are."Alves will travel nearly 1,000 miles from Boston to Atlanta for the match, while those staying behind will watch together at his barbershop."There will be free snacks, free drinks for people to come and enjoy," he said."This is the power of sport.

There are a lot of people in this community who don't follow football, but they've been coming into the shop to ask questions."When's the game? Where's the game? Can I watch? Can I go? Can I come to the shop?"This is the power of sport, getting people together."Massachusetts is home to the largest Cape Verdean community in the United States, and many are hoping to witness another chapter in the country's remarkable football story.