The Argentina national team faced an unexpected challenge in the 2026 World Cup from Sidny Lopes Cabral, a 23-year-old Cape Verdean right-back who scored a stunning goal and had a face-to-face encounter with Leo Messi.

What happened?

Sidny Lopes Cabral, trained in the youth ranks of Feyenoord and Twente, was left without a team in 2020 and had to rebuild his career away from the spotlight.

Why is it important for Argentina?

Lopes Cabral's performance was not only notable for his goal, but also for his ability to challenge the Argentina national team, which is looking to continue its 3-game winning streak, including its last win over Angola 0-2 on November 14, 2025.

What comes next?

The Argentina national team must move forward and prepare for its next match, knowing that it will face talented players like Sidny Lopes Cabral.

DateMatchResult
November 14, 2025Angola - Argentina0-2
Current streak3 consecutive wins