Cape Verde’s wondergoal earns FIFA’s top prize at World Cup

Sidny Lopes Cabral’s magistrate equaliser against Argentina in the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup has been voted by FIFA as the Goal of the Tournament. The Cape Verdean left‑back’s curving shot from the corner of the sixteenth curled into the far top corner, leaving goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez helpless.

Cape Verde finished second in the group stage and entered the first knockout round facing title‑holder and eventual finalist Argentina. Many experts had predicted the World Cup debutant would be eliminated, but the match turned into a tightly contested affair.

The Blue Sharks forced extra time, and Lopes Cabral produced a second equaliser that was later nullified. His effort demonstrated the team’s resilience against a strong Argentine side.

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Argentina ultimately progressed thanks to an own goal by Diney, despite the Cape Verdean’s efforts to stay in the competition.

The award gives a golden edge to an already remarkable World Cup for the Blue Sharks, highlighting the impact of the Cape Verdean left‑back on the tournament.

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Lopes Cabral posted on Instagram, “Before the World Cup I said my dream was to score here. I never imagined my goal would be chosen as the tournament’s best. It is a huge honour for me and for Cape Verde. I hope this moment inspires young Cape Verdeans to believe their dreams are within reach.”

After Cape Verde’s elimination, VI conducted an interview with Sidny Lopes Cabral, the full story of which is available below.