Cabo Verde defender Sidny Lopes Cabral won the 2026 FIFA World Cup Goal of the Tournament fan vote for his stunning 103rd-minute curling left-footed strike against Argentina in the Round of 32. His dramatic extra-time equalizer tied the match 2-2 before Argentina ultimately advanced with a 3-2 victory.

Sidny Lopes Cabral’s spectacular long-range strike for Cabo Verde against Argentina in the Round of 32 was officially voted the Hyundai Goal of the Tournament for the FIFA World Cup 2026™.

Sensational Curling Strike

Lopes Cabral unleashed an unforgettable curling effort into the top corner against the defending champions, shocking the world.

The strike received the majority of global fan votes on FIFA’s official platforms, beating out goals from Jude Bellingham and Lionel Messi.

The goal highlighted a dream World Cup debut for the island nation as they reached the knockout stages for the first time.

Significance of the Award

Beat out high-profile contenders, including global superstars like Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland.
Highlighted Cabo Verde’s impressive debut performance on the global stage.
Prompted an iconic celebration where Lopes Cabral ran into the stands to embrace his girlfriend and check on his mother, who briefly fainted from the excitement.