Miami: The Cape Verde national team, affectionately known as the "Blue Sharks," may have exited the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the Round of 32, but they have left an indelible mark on the tournament. Following their valiant performance against defending champions Argentina, Cape Verde winger Sidny Lopes Cabral has been honoured with the title of the Round of 32’s best goal.

In a resounding endorsement from football fans worldwide, Lopes Cabral’s stunning effort received a massive 88.7 per cent of the public vote in FIFA’s official poll, according to FIFA.com. His goal, a magnificent, curling strike from the edge of the penalty area, found the far corner of the net in the 103rd minute, temporarily levelling the scores at 2-2 during an exhilarating extra-time period.

The strike was widely hailed as a "wonder goal" and a "wow" moment of the 2026 tournament. It outshone high-profile competition in the voting, finishing well ahead of strikes from global stars including Argentina’s Lionel Messi (4.1 per cent) and France’s Kylian Mbappé (1.6 per cent).

Reflecting on the match, which ultimately ended in a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat for the newcomers, the Blue Sharks’ campaign was defined by courage and tactical discipline. Despite falling to the reigning champions in Miami, Cape Verde finished their tournament with their heads held high, having captivated neutral supporters and secured a place in the shortlist for the prestigious Hyundai Goal of the Tournament award.

For the tiny island nation, which only joined FIFA in 1985, this World Cup debut has been nothing short of historic. As noted by FIFA, this poll marks the second step in the selection process for the tournament's overall best goal, following the group stage winner, Uzbekistan captain Eldor Shomurodov.