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Cape Verde's Cabral scores World Cup's best goal
🇲🇾 Malaysia /Sports

Cape Verde's Cabral scores World Cup's best goal

From Utusan Malaysia · () Malay

Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News From a news agency Outcome reported
  • Sidny Lopes Cabral's stunning goal against Argentina was named the best goal of the 2026 World Cup.
  • The 23-year-old Cape Verdean player's individual effort beat out goals from stars like Messi and Mbappe.
  • Cabral's goal, a solo run and curling shot, has earned praise from football legends.

Cape Verdean star Sidny Lopes Cabral has achieved a historic feat, with his sensational goal against Argentina being crowned the best goal of the 2026 World Cup. The 23-year-old midfielder's individual brilliance earned him the prestigious Hyundai Goal of the Tournament award, as confirmed by the International Federation of Football Associations (FIFA).

Cabral's remarkable strike captivated fans worldwide, surpassing efforts from global superstars such as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Julian Alvarez. The goal was a product of a daring solo run, during which Cabral skillfully evaded Alexis Mac Allister before unleashing a curling shot that found the back of the net, leaving Argentina's goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez with no chance.

As soon as I saw the ball heading for the top corner, I thought, ‘What have I just done?’ I couldn’t believe it myself.

— Sidny Lopes CabralCabral reflecting on his disbelief immediately after scoring the goal.

This spectacular goal places the Rotterdam-born defender in esteemed company, joining previous recipients of the award like James Rodriguez, Benjamin Pavard, and Richarlison. The goal was scored during a match against Argentina, who ultimately reached the World Cup final. Cabral described the moment of scoring as surreal, recalling his disbelief and amazement after the ball hit the top corner.

He further elaborated that the goal was a spontaneous display of instinct, stating, "I just started running without thinking. Then I realized I had scored an extraordinary goal in the World Cup." The quality of his strike did not go unnoticed by football royalty, with Brazilian legend Marcelo reportedly contacting Cabral personally to offer congratulations and revealing he had also voted for the goal.

I just started running without thinking. Then I realized I had scored an extraordinary goal in the World Cup.

— Sidny Lopes CabralCabral describing the spontaneous nature of his award-winning goal.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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