Sidny Lopes Cabral, a 23-year-old defender, recently joined Trabzonspor from Benfica. He is a key player for Cape Verde, which has been a surprise team at the World Cup 2026. Ahead of their match against Argentina in the round of 16, Cabral is expected to help contain Lionel Messi.
However, Cabral stated his intention to swap jerseys with Nicolas Otamendi, a former teammate at Benfica, rather than Messi. In an interview with Spanish newspaper AS, the Cape Verde defender explained, "It is a great honor to face Messi. He is the greatest player, but we must focus on what we can do on the field".
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Sidny Lopes Cabral (left) marks Lamine Yamal during cape verde's 0-0 draw with spain in the opening round of World Cup 2026 group H at the Atlanta stadium, georgia, usa on 15/6. *Imago*.
Cape Verde has made a significant impact in its first World Cup appearance. The African team drew 0-0 with Spain, 2-2 with Uruguay, and 0-0 with Saudi Arabia, securing second place in their group and a direct spot in the round of 16.
Cabral expressed confidence about their next challenge. "This will be a difficult and high-intensity match", he said. "We will prepare thoroughly. The team has worked well, has confidence, and believes we can play an excellent match against Argentina". Asked about Cape Verde's surprising performance, Cabral attributed their strength to team unity. "There is no secret", he stated. "We are simply a family, always doing everything together. The team has great cohesion and understanding".
Recalling the 0-0 draw against Spain in the group stage, the defender described the feeling as "unbelievable". During that match, Cabral marked Lamine Yamal, whom he called a "superstar" and the "best winger in the world".
Cabral noted the vibrant atmosphere in Cape Verde, with fans showing enthusiastic support for the national team. "Everyone is happy and always cheers us on", he shared. The defender also highlighted goalkeeper Vozinha, who became a social media sensation after his impressive performance against Spain. Lopes Cabral described his teammate's rise in popularity as "unbelievable".
| Cabral developed at the Helsingborg academy in Sweden, where he was identified as a promising talent. In 2024, the defender moved to Viktoria Koln in Germany, before joining Estrela da Amadora in summer 2025. He quickly made an impact with his attacking play, scoring 5 goals and providing 2 assists in the Portuguese national championship, including a hat-trick against Casa Pia. His form led to Benfica signing Cabral in late 12/2025 for about 10 million USD. He debuted for the team in early 1/2026, assisting in his first match. He then scored his first Benfica goal in a 4-0 win against Estrela da Amadora. In 6/2026, Cabral transferred to Trabzonspor in Turkey for 12 million USD. He debuted for Cape Verde in 2023, scoring his first national team goal in a 5/2025 friendly against Malaysia. Coach Bubista then called him up for the World Cup 2026. |
Hong Duy (according to Abola)
