Sidny Lopes Cabral Wins FIFA World Cup 2026 Goal of the Tournament Award

Cabo Verde defender Sidny Lopes Cabral has been named the winner of the Hyundai Goal of the Tournament award at the FIFA World Cup 2026 for his stunning strike against Argentina in the Round of 32.

The 23-year-old produced one of the competition's most memorable moments when he dribbled past Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister before curling a sensational effort into the top corner beyond goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez during an extra-time thriller. Although Cabo Verde eventually suffered a narrow 3-2 defeat, Lopes Cabral's spectacular goal captured global attention.


The breathtaking finish topped the fan vote ahead of Uzbekistan's Eldor Shomurodov and Haiti's Wilson Isidor, earning Lopes Cabral a place alongside previous winners including Maxi Rodriguez, Diego Forlan, James Rodriguez, Benjamin Pavard and Richarlison.


Reflecting on the strike, Lopes Cabral said he spotted space after beating his defender and instinctively aimed for the top corner. He admitted he could hardly believe what he had accomplished as the ball found the net, describing it as a dream moment on football's biggest stage.

The emotional celebration extended beyond the pitch. The defender revealed that his mother, Teresa, fainted in the stands after witnessing his remarkable goal. He had promised both his mother and girlfriend that he would celebrate with them if he scored, only to find medical staff assisting her when he reached the crowd.


Lopes Cabral also disclosed that former Brazil and Real Madrid star Marcelo personally congratulated him after the match and revealed he had voted for the goal as the tournament's best. The message from one of his childhood idols made the achievement even more special.

The award marks another milestone in Lopes Cabral's remarkable rise. Just three years ago, he was playing in Germany's fifth division before earning his breakthrough at the international level. His unforgettable World Cup strike has now secured one of football's most prestigious individual honours and cemented his place among the tournament's standout performers.