Cape Verde's Helio Varela Gives Israeli Fans a World Cup Moment

Cape Verde midfielder Helio Varela, whose full name is Helio Sandro Oliveira Alves Varela, became the focus of Israeli media and fans after scoring in the 62nd minute of Cape Verde's 2-2 draw with Uruguay. The article says the goal left Uruguay, a two-time World Cup champion, needing a win over a strong, improving Spain in the final group match to advance.

The writer notes that the result also kept alive Cape Verde's own hopes of reaching the knockout stage if it beats Saudi Arabia, calling that possibility surprising but no longer impossible after two rounds. The main point, however, was the emotional reaction in Israel to a player who represents Maccabi Tel Aviv and had previously been little known to many local football fans.

The piece describes a wave of celebration among Israelis, especially Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters, and argues that Varela briefly became a national favorite, likening his symbolic status to famous Israelis who