Cape Verde defender Lopes Cabral has won the best goal award for the round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Cabral struck the net in Cape Verde's thrilling 3-2 loss to Argentina, the defending champions.
The 23-year-old collected the ball on the left flank and unleashed a curling finish past goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez midway through the second half. His effort captured 88.7 per cent of votes cast by the public.
Lionel Messi finished second in the voting with 4.1 per cent for his goal in that same encounter between Cape Verde and Argentina. Japan's Kaishu Sano placed third, earning 1.9 per cent for his strike during Japan's match against Brazil.
Uzbekistan's captain Eldor Shomurodov claimed the group stage goal of the tournament for his finish against the Democratic Republic of Congo. The award recognises the standout individual moments from the competition's opening phase.
Cabral's recognition marks a bright spot for Cape Verde despite their exit from the tournament following the narrow defeat to the South American powerhouses. The full-back's technical quality on the ball proved decisive in securing him the honour ahead of established stars.
