'He really needs to stop crying, man. Look at those crocodile tears, get out!'

Khalid Boulahrouz was very annoyed by Bebé's substitution on behalf of Cape Verde against South Africa. The left winger, who has a past at Manchester United, was far too selfish in the eyes of Boulahrouz. Cape Verde, with born Rotterdammers Laros and Deroy Duarte, Garry Rodrigues and Jamiro Monteiro, ultimately lost out in a decisive penalty shootout.

The elimination of Cape Verde understandably caused a lot of sadness among the players. Immediately after the final whistle, Khalid Boulahrouz started Ziggo Sports to his analysis, while it showed how Bebé had to be comforted by some teammates.

“He really needs to stop crying, man,” Boulahrouz responded fiercely. “Look at those crocodile tears, get out man! He puts on such a performance in such an important match.”

“I really enjoyed Cape Verde. From the goalkeeper to the striker: everyone did their best,” the analyst then complimented the Blue Sharks. “When you see how much energy they put into the match. Everything was right when in possession and when losing the ball. Cape Verde may have given away one good chance at the start of extra time. They just failed to pull the trigger themselves.”

National coach Bubista's team had the better game against South Africa and made no fewer than 25 goal attempts, but only 2 shots were actually shot on target. To decide the match in regular time, Bebé was brought in for the born Rotterdammer Rodrigues in the 72nd minute at 0-0.

Boulahrouz's appearance just could not please Boulahrouz. “One of the most experienced players enters the field in the final phase. It is logical that the Cape Verde national coach then thinks: At this moment we need his input, he will help us further. But he's just going to play his own match…,” the former professional said about Bebé.

“A boy like that really needs to get away. How he comes in… No, sorry. Then I don't think much of you if you start crying after the match. In my opinion he didn't do everything he could to win. Then you shouldn't cry, but apologize to your teammates.”

Bebé was ultimately one of four Cape Verdeans to miss a penalty, ensuring South Africa a place in the semi-finals of the African Cup of Nations.

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