FIFA has named the goal scored by the Cape Verde defender as the best of the 2026 World Cup
The International Federation of Association Football has named the best goal of the 2026 World Cup, which took place from 11 June to 19 July in the USA, Canada and Mexico. FIFA has announced the results of the vote.
The goal scored by 23-year-old Cape Verde defender Sidney Cabral Lopes in the round of 16 match against Argentina was named the best goal of the tournament.
In the 103rd minute of the match, during extra time, Cabral Lopes levelled the score at 2–2. The player moved in from the left flank into the Argentinian penalty area and curled the ball into the top far corner of Emiliano Martínez’s goal.
After the results of the vote were announced, the footballer recalled the moment he scored the goal.
“The moment I got past my opponent, I saw a gap and thought: ‘Let’s give it a go.’ I’m good at shooting with both feet. I spotted the space and aimed for the top corner. I took my aim and struck the ball perfectly.
When I looked up and saw it flying into that top corner, I thought: ‘What have I just done?’ I couldn’t believe it. I looked at my teammates. Everyone was shouting, clutching their heads, absolutely thrilled.
I just ran without thinking. Then I realised I’d scored a spectacular goal at the World Cup. Everyone dreams of making their mark at the World Cup, but to score like that, on such a big stage against such a big opponent, was extraordinary,” said Cabral Lopes.
Despite this goal, the Cape Verde national team failed to progress to the next stage of the tournament. In the 111th minute, Argentina snatched a 3–2 victory following an own goal by their opponents and advanced to the round of 16.
The top three goals of the World Cup also included a goal by Uzbekistan striker Eldor Shomurodov in the match against Congo and a goal by Haiti striker Wilson Isidore in the match against Morocco.
Earlier, FIFA also named Spain and Manchester City midfielder Rodri as the best player of the 2026 World Cup.
