Lopes Cabral's stunner against Argentina wins Goal of 2026 World Cup

Cabo Verde's Sidny Lopes Cabral has been awarded the Goal of the Tournament for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, FIFA announced Monday. His spectacular curling strike against Argentina in the round of 32 captivated fans and secured the prestigious honor.

The match itself was a dramatic affair, with Cabo Verde forcing extra time after a 1-1 draw in regulation. Argentina, the 2022 champions, briefly regained the lead before Lopes Cabral delivered his moment of brilliance in the 103rd minute. The left-back collected the ball on the left flank, skillfully evaded Alexis Mac Allister, and unleashed a perfectly placed right-footed shot into the top corner, leaving goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez with no chance.

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It was simply surreal. It's an enormous honor and the kind of recognition every player dreams of. I'm incredibly grateful for everyone who voted my goal as the best of the tournament.

"It was simply surreal," Lopes Cabral told FIFA. "It's an enormous honor and the kind of recognition every player dreams of. I'm incredibly grateful for everyone who voted my goal as the best of the tournament." He added, "Now the challenge is to keep working to score more goals like that and, above all, to help both my club and country to win matches. Receiving this award is a very special honor for me."

Argentina ultimately prevailed in the thrilling encounter, with Cristian Romero scoring the winning goal via a deflected header. The Goal of the Tournament award also saw nominations from Uzbekistan's Eldor Shomurodov and Haiti's Wilson Isidor, who finished second and third, respectively. Lopes Cabral joins an esteemed list of past winners, including Maxi Rodriguez, Diego Forlan, James Rodriguez, Benjamin Pavard, and Richarlison.

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Now the challenge is to keep working to score more goals like that and, above all, to help both my club and country to win matches. Receiving this award is a very special honor for me.