Sidny Lopes Cabral's Goal Against Argentina Voted Best of the World Cup

The FIFA Puskás Award for the best goal of the 2026 World Cup has been bestowed upon Cape Verde's Sidny Lopes Cabral, more than a week after the tournament's conclusion. His spectacular goal, scored in the 103rd minute of extra time against Argentina during the round of 16, earned the prestigious distinction.

FIFA highlighted Lopes's goal as one that "stole their hearts," describing it as a direct shot to the top of the net. The play saw the Cape Verdean winger skillfully dribble past Argentinian midfielders Alexis Mac Allister and Nahuel Molina Lucero before unleashing a powerful shot that nestled into the upper left corner of the goal, past the outstretched arms of goalkeeper Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez.

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It is a great honor to receive this award. I am incredibly happy and grateful for this recognition and for all that it represents.

At the time of the goal, Lopes's strike leveled the score at 2-2, igniting celebrations as he ran across the field with his hands on his head. Although Cape Verde ultimately lost the match 3-2 due to an own goal, Lopes's moment of individual brilliance captured the world's attention.

Lopes expressed his immense pride and happiness on Instagram, calling the award a "great honor" and expressing gratitude for the recognition. He revealed that he had dreamed of scoring in the World Cup prior to the tournament, but never imagined his goal would be voted the best. Lopes was a pivotal player for Cape Verde throughout the tournament, helping them remain undefeated in the group stage and pushing the eventual champions, Argentina, to the brink.

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Before the 2026 World Cup, I gave an interview in which I said that my dream was to score in this tournament. I would never have imagined that, at the end of it, my goal would be voted the best.