Ludogorets Midfielder at World Cup: "I Feel Like I'm Dreaming"

Ludogorets Razgrad midfielder Deroy Duarte believes Cape Verde's upcoming World Cup Round of 16 clash against reigning champions Argentina will be tough, but he maintains that anything is possible and his team continues to dream in their debut appearance at the prestigious tournament. The 26-year-old midfielder was named Player of the Match for his performance in his first start at the North American World Cup. Cape Verde secured a goalless draw against Saudi Arabia, finishing second in Group H and advancing to the knockout stage undefeated. "Honestly, this is crazy. I feel like I'm dreaming. Ever since I was a little kid, I've always dreamed of playing in a World Cup. To be Player of the Match and to be making history is something I never could have imagined," Deroy Duarte said after the game.

The team from the small island nation in the Atlantic Ocean delivered a major surprise, navigating a group that included Spain and Uruguay, drawing with both formidable opponents. Cape Verde's next challenge, however, is against the defending champions, Argentina. Yet, Duarte and his teammates remain resolute. "Let's celebrate this success first. We are so happy. I hope everyone in Cape Verde is happy too. From tomorrow, we will focus on the next match. It's against Argentina, right? That will be a tough game, but let's believe. Anything is possible," said the Ludogorets midfielder.

Deroy Duarte has been playing for the "Eagles" of Razgrad since 2024, accumulating 103 appearances and 4 goals across all competitions during that time. His older brother, Laros Duarte, is also part of the Cape Verde national team and has featured in all three group stage matches so far. At club level, he plays for Hungarian side Puskás Akadémia.